Reading Initiative for Student Excellence

R.I.S.E. (Reading Initiative for Student Excellence) Arkansas encourages a culture of reading by coordinating a statewide reading campaign with community partners, parents, and teachers to establish the importance of reading in homes, schools, and communities. This page features a variety of resources to assist parents with reading at home and to increase the depth of knowledge for teachers.  Goal 1: Sharpen the focus and strengthen instruction.  Goal 2: Create community collaboration.  Goal 3: Build a culture of reading!

R.I.S.E. Arkansas Science of Reading Resources

For updated resources, research, and information, visit the R.I.S.E. Arkansas Science of Reading Resources page. 

Reading Legislation Guidance

The Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) is developing rules for the various components of reading legislation. These rules will outline the process for ensuring teachers are able to demonstrate proficiency or awareness in scientific reading instruction as applicable to their teaching position. The Reading Legislation Guidance Document has been created to help educators understand requirements and timelines.  This document provides clarification on pertinent literacy legislation that districts are required to implement. Educators are encouraged to read the laws in their entirety.

Literacy Support Plan Guidance

The DESE is in the process of developing rules to support public school districts and open-enrollment public charter schools that are required to include a literacy plan in the annual school improvement plan. This Literacy Support Plan Guidance Document has been created to serve as a resource to schools in meeting this requirement.

R.I.S.E. Arkansas Resources for Schools

The R.I.S.E. Arkansas Communications Kit is available to help promote a culture of reading in Arkansas. Whether you are a teacher, student, parent or community member, you can get involved. Please promote reading activities on social media using #RISEArkansas.

A New Chapter for Arkansas Students-2018 Report

The Reading Initiative for Student Excellence (R.I.S.E. Arkansas) is committed to transforming literacy education. Please read "A New Chapter for Arkansas Students-2018 Report" to learn how Arkansas is writing a new chapter focusing on a new way of thinking, a new focus of instruction, a new future for our state, and rising achievement.

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