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This year, St. Joseph School has begun implementing a new, research-based curriculum for reading and writing as part of our continued investment in high-quality instruction.

Adopted Curriculum:

• 2025-2026 Grades K–5: Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA) by Amplify

• 2026-2027 Grades K–8: Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA) by Amplify
   

  • CKLA Amplify is a comprehensive program that builds strong foundational skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. It combines systematic phonics instruction with rich content knowledge in literature, history, and science—helping students become thoughtful, lifelong readers.

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​Dear St. Joseph’s Parents and Families,

We want to remind you how important it is for every child to be able to read by the end of third grade. Strong reading skills open the door to all future learning. This journey starts now in Kindergarten! To help your child reach this milestone, St. Joseph’s will provide the following supports:

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How We Will Support Your Child:

Universal Screener – For K–2 Grades:
Students in kindergarten through second grade will take a screener to show strengths and areas needing support. Results will be shared with families to guide personalized help.

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Multiple Chances on IREAD – For 2 & 3 Grades:
Students begin IREAD testing in second grade, with a summer retest option. Students who show proficiency early do not test again. Those needing more support will continue in third grade with another chance in spring and summer.

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Summer Learning – For 2 & 3 Grades:
Free summer reading courses will be available for students who need additional help. Instruction will follow proven practices from the science of reading.

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Additional Support – For All Grades:
Our After School Program – St. Joseph’s Workshop (M–F, 3:00–5:00 PM) also provides reading time opportunities for students who stay during that time. This reading and homework support is offered at no additional cost beyond the regular after-school program fee.

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INFORMATION ABOUT RETENTIONS AND EXCEMPTIONS: 

If a student still struggles to read at the end of third grade, state law requires retention, with some exceptions. A Good Cause Exemption (GCE) may apply for:

• Students previously retained in third grade, or in prior years,

• Students with specific IEP determinations,

• English learners with less than two years of services,

• Students proficient in third-grade math ILEARN, or

• Students who have already received multiple years of intensive reading support.

Ongoing Support

Whether retained in third grade or promoted, students who have not passed IREAD will continue receiving reading support and will retake the test until they pass or until the end of sixth grade.

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FAMILY PARTNERSHIP:

We encourage all families to:

• Read with their child for 30 minutes daily,

• Visit the library, and

• Nurture a love for books.

Together, we can make a lasting difference in your child’s learning!

Thank you for partnering with us in your child’s success.

Please reach out to the school principal or your child’s teacher if you have any questions.

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THANKS AND GOD BLESS!
Fernanda Becker
Principal - St. Joseph Catholic School

260-432-4000

fbecker@saintjosephcatholicfw.org​