Hall County Schools Achieve 15% Literacy Growth, Transforming Early Reading Outcomes

OAK PARK, Ill., Feb. 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Hall County Schools in Georgia are celebrating a breakthrough in early literacy achievement after students recorded a remarkable 15% increase in MAP Growth literacy scores during the 2023–2024 academic year. A study conducted by LXD Research revealed these gains were driven by a commitment to research-based and Science of Reading-aligned instructional strategies, with struggling readers making the most significant progress.

Faced with the challenge of improving foundational literacy skills, Hall County implemented a targeted, research-based approach across their district. The outcomes are now a testament to what’s possible for students when educators are equipped with the right tools and support.

Improving Literacy Outcomes: Hall County’s Success
Hall County educators experienced significant strides in key reading domains, including phonics and word recognition, phonological awareness, and overall literacy confidence through structured, systematic instruction designed to support early learners and diverse student needs.

The LXD Research study compared 239 first-grade students in schools using Heggerty Bridge to Reading with peers in schools using Fountas & Pinnell’s Guided Reading program. The results were astounding:

• A 15% increase in MAP Growth literacy scores was demonstrated for participating first graders, significantly outperforming peers using the alternative methods.
• Struggling readers in the bottom 20% exceeded national growth expectations by 20%, showcasing accelerated progress.
• Teachers reported improved classroom engagement, with students applying newfound literacy skills across subject areas.

“Our study demonstrates the profound impact of evidence-based literacy instruction,” said Dr. Rachel Schechter, founder of LXD Research. “The growth achieved by Hall County students, particularly those starting below grade level, highlights the potential to close achievement gaps and set students up for long-term success.”

How Hall County Closed Literacy Gaps
Hall County’s literacy gains stem from a combination of visionary leadership, passionate educators, and the adoption of Bridge to Reading, Heggerty’s Science of Reading-aligned Foundational Skills Curriculum that provides:

• Daily phonics and phonemic awareness instruction aligned with research-backed best practices.
• Differentiated instruction to meet the needs of all learners.
• Comprehensive teacher training and resources for seamless implementation.

“Heggerty’s mission has always been to create resources that empower teachers and make a lasting difference for students,” said Marjorie Bottari, co-author of Bridge to Reading. “The success Hall County Schools has experienced shows how Bridge to Reading is transforming early literacy instruction, helping students build critical foundational literacy skills that will last a lifetime.”

A Model for Nationwide Literacy Improvement
The Hall County literacy initiative is a powerful blueprint for districts nationwide, demonstrating how the power of evidence-based programs like Bridge to Reading and passionate educators can transform students’ literacy journeys. Their success offers hope for overcoming literacy challenges, proving that even struggling readers can make remarkable progress and close achievement gaps.

For more details about Hall County’s literacy growth and the role of Science of Reading-aligned curricula, visit www.heggerty.org/success-stories/literacy-growth-with-heggerty-bridge-to-reading

About LXD Research
LXD Research is an independent educational evaluation and consulting firm specializing in rigorous research to support programs that drive measurable educational outcomes. Learn more at www.lxdresearch.com.

About Heggerty
Heggerty is a leading provider of research-backed literacy programs and professional learning opportunities, empowering educators and helping students become confident readers. Heggerty’s commitment to the Science of Reading ensures every child has the tools for lifelong literacy success. Learn more at heggerty.org

Media Contact
Sydney Addis
Marketing Manager—Heggerty
sydney@heggerty.org 

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SOURCE Heggerty