April 11, 2025
Case Studies
"I read all the research and statistics," said Heather Henderson, chief academic officer at Arizona Charter Academy (ACA), a K-8, Title I school in Surprise. "It says that 95% of kids can read if you follow these methods" based in the science of reading. "Our kids are no different. I was like, 'We’re going to make this happen. We’re going for it. This isn’t negotiable.'"
The early literacy story at ACA is a case study in the systematic, collaborative, and tenacious approach required to effectively implement an evidence-based curriculum and intervention program from kindergarten through the early grades to help students build the skills they need to be proficient readers.
Read On Arizona sat down with ACA staff to learn what they believe have been the keys to improving literacy in K-2 to fuel success in grades 3 through 5 in the long run.
"In the last few years, the big difference is that the staff and I are beginning to really understand the science of reading," Henderson said.
About the Case Studies
Read On Arizona's "Decoding What Works" case studies highlight elementary schools and early learning programs in Arizona that have made significant progress in literacy and the strategies behind their success. Understanding what is working for these schools can serve as guidance and inspiration for other educators, schools, and districts.
