Read to Achieve reading diagnostic update We have received numerous requests for information regarding the forthcoming decision from the RFP process for the Read to Achieve (RtA) diagnostic. We should have a selection before the end of the month. As a reminder, regardless of the selection, training opportunities will need to be scheduled before the 2019-2020 school year. Professional development on implementation models, strategies, and techniques will need to be delivered for the RtA diagnostic regardless of the vendor selected. We will be working with the selected vendor to ensure training is flexible to accommodate districts’ needs. With any vendor choice, benchmark windows will continue to be necessary for Universal Screening at Beginning of Year (BOY), Middle of Year (MOY), and End of Year (EOY).   Thank you for your patience and understanding as we reach a final decision. We are coming to the end of a process which has taken nearly two years and engaged multiple stakeholders. Thank you for everything you do to improve literacy for our students across the state.

Parental Engagement Handouts from DPI and State Superintendent

As you know, DPI has been working on a parental engagement campaign in order to better communicate with parents regarding updates in public education, tips on increasing early literacy, and more. Part of this parental outreach initiative includes sending home printed fliers with students. We want to thank you for your continued support of this initiative and update you on the four fliers you can expect before the end of this school year; they are as follows:

• School Report Card Notification Document - Please ensure that every student in your district receives one.
• Summer Reading Tips at Home - this flier gives parents tips on how to practice reading with their children over the summer. Please ensure that students in grades K-5 receive one. 
• Teacher Appreciation - this flier reminds students and parents of the many reasons to thank teachers, as well as explains to students why teaching is a great career option. Please ensure that students in grades 6-12 receive one. 
• Summer Nutrition - this flier explains to parents that they have free meal options for their children over the summer. Please ensure that every student in your district receives one. 

Seeking feedback on SBE Statewide Strategic Plan

The State Board of Education's current statewide Strategic Plan will expire in June 2020, though there is a need for revisions now. This revision work has been borne out of conducting research, reviewing and understanding the state’s federally-mandated Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Plan, working with a Board committee to develop goals, and holding issue sessions at monthly Board meetings to clarify our goals and objectives. For the first time, the Board is engaging in gathering shareholder feedback to develop impactful statewide policy.

Please complete the following Google Form Survey to share your thoughts on the proposed Strategic Plan by May 31.

Take the Survey Here: https://forms.gle/TdofA4djCoYfDM9a9

Changes to how NC will determine Significant Disproportionality

Due to a recent court ruling, the 2016 Significant Disproportionality Regulations are back into effect. The EC Division gathered feedback from stakeholders over two years ago, and determined the following guidelines in regards to significant disproportionality:

• Definition of Significant Discrepancy in Discipline: ≥ 3.0 risk ratio or alternate risk ratio for five (5) disciplinary actions identified. Click here to learn more.
• Definition of Disproportionate Representation in Identification: ≥ 3.0 risk ratio or alternate risk ratio in special education and six (6) specific disability categories. Click here to learn more.
• Definition of Disproportionate Representation in Placement: ≥ 3.0 risk ratio or alternate risk ratio for placement options: regular class < 40% of day and separate environments. Click here to learn more.

Determinations will be made for 2017-18 based on the formulas attached above. LEAs determined to have significant disproportionality will be notified in the next two weeks. Questions regarding this information should be addressed to Nancy Johnson.

2018-19 IABS MTSS recognition In April, the Integrated Academic and Behavior Systems Division shared this graphic with all MTSS and PBIS Coordinators. It details the release of the MTSS Recognition Application. District coordinators were asked to share the platform and supporting resources with school-based administrators.   Individual schools who wish to apply for recognition will use the electronic platform to submit an application by Sept. 20.   For any questions regarding MTSS Recognition, please email intergratedsystems@dpi.nc.gov.

Letters of Recognition from the State Superintendent For students, faculty, and staff Do you know of a student or faculty or staff member who has achieved something extraordinary? State Superintendent Mark Johnson would like to recognize individuals and groups who have earned such accomplishments with a letter applauding their achievement. Examples of excellence include special service to one’s community, receiving recognition or awards, excellence in competition, athletics, or academia, and more.   If you wish to request a letter of recognition from Superintendent Johnson, go to https://www.ncsuperintendent.com/letterrequest and provide the information requested. We look forward to hearing about your good news.