Horry County School Board Approves LETRS Training for Early Childhood Teachers
In a recent meeting, the Horry County School Board made a significant move to enhance education for our little learners by unanimously approving LETRS training for teachers in kindergarten through third grade. This training, aimed specifically at those certified in early childhood, is considered a crucial step in developing effective reading instruction skills among educators.
What is LETRS Training?
So, what’s all this fuss about LETRS? The acronym stands for Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spellings, and it’s designed to provide teachers with the tools and knowledge they need to help students become proficient readers. By focusing on the science of reading, LETRS training equips educators with strategies that can make a real difference in their classrooms.
Training Details
The approved plan requires teachers to undertake LETRS training throughout the school day once in August, once in October, and again in February. To ensure that teachers can fully participate without disrupting classroom activities, substitutes will be provided specifically for the fourth day of training. This is a thoughtful approach, recognizing that education doesn’t stop when the professional development sessions begin!
The Voice of The Teachers
A key aspect of this decision came from direct feedback provided by Horry County teachers themselves. They shared their experiences and challenges regarding the LETRS training. Feedback highlighted the difficulty in balancing parent conferences and peer collaboration while managing the demands of the curriculum. Understanding these challenges, the school board decided to add a new provision to the training protocol.
Further Support from the School Board
In a bid to further support teachers, the school board approved the addition of substitutes on professional leave days for teachers participating in LETRS training. This means that teachers will have a substitute available for each semester of their training, allowing them to focus entirely on their professional development without the stress of missing classroom time. It’s all about making it easier for our teachers to enhance their skills!
Budget Considerations
Now, you might be wondering about the costs involved in this initiative. The projected budget for this undertaking is $195,273.75. It’s a significant investment in the future of education in Horry County, but many believe that the benefits, especially for young students, will far outweigh the initial costs.
A Bright Future Ahead
As the school year rolls on, this new training opportunity represents a commitment by Horry County to prioritize literacy and quality education for its youngest students. With the right resources and ongoing professional development, teachers will be better prepared to support their students in becoming successful readers.
In conclusion, the Horry County School Board’s decision to invest in LETRS training is a skillful step towards enriching the educational landscape for early childhood educators. By listening to the needs of the teachers, providing them with the necessary support, and ensuring that they have access to effective training, the community is taking the right direction to foster a generation of skilled readers. If the community continues to rally behind our teachers like this, the future certainly looks bright for Horry County’s young scholars!
