The state Elementary Department of Instruction is proud to announce that Indian River School District has been awarded more than $200,000 through the State of Delaware’s Bridge to Practice Grant. This funding supports the Delaware Department of Education’s continued commitment to ensuring all students become proficient readers by the end of Grade 3.

Through the implementation of the Science of Reading and Structured Literacy using CKLA, IRSD has seen meaningful growth in literacy instruction. However, ongoing, high-quality professional learning and consistent instructional practices remain essential to supporting every student’s success.

In October 2025, the Delaware Department of Education identified early literacy as a statewide priority, outlining four key focus areas to ensure all students achieve reading proficiency by the end of Grade 3. Central to this initiative is job-embedded, high-quality professional learning for educators.

The Bridge to Practice Grant enables IRSD to expand and enhance professional learning opportunities for teachers and school leaders, aligning with Delaware Senate Bill 4, which requires all K–3 instructional staff to complete state-approved, evidence-based literacy training by the 2027–2028 school year.

Through this grant, IRSD will:

Provide Early Literacy Leadership Academy (ELLA 1) training for school-based leadership teams to strengthen literacy practices at the classroom level.
Offer AIM Literacy Training: Pathways to Proficient Reading to 40 educators, deepening their understanding of the Science of Reading and Structured Literacy.
Launch “Unlocking Literacy: SoR in Action for ALL,” a comprehensive professional learning series beginning in February 2026 for all K–3 teachers and instructional staff.

DOE is deeply grateful for this opportunity to further strengthen early literacy instruction across the district. Together, we are building a strong foundation for lifelong reading success for every IRSD student.

Phillip C. Showell Elementary School

Phillip C. Showell Elementary School

District Receives Delaware Bridge to Practice Grant