Academics 1-5

The purpose of the Accelerated Reading Program is to motivate students to read. Students’ reading levels are identified through an assessment tool. Students then read books in their reading level range and then take a computer test to check for comprehension. Students earn points based on test scores. Points earned and accumulated may be used in a reward system developed by the school.

Vietnamese-English and Chinese-English Dual Language Programs are offered at Stafford Primary School starting in Kindergarten. Parents must fill out an application. Once the student is qualified and approved, parents must agree to be committed to program for 5 years.

Bilingual/Dual Language

Classes are taught in both Spanish and English by a certified bilingual teacher. Instruction focuses on developing the needs of identified Limited English Proficient (LEP) students in the areas of language acquisition and content area concepts.

The goal  of guided reading is to help students develop strategies to apply independently. Work focuses on processes integral to reading proficiently, such as cross-checking print and meaning information, rather than on learning a particular book’s word meanings. During guided reading, teachers monitor student reading processes and check that texts are within students’ grasps, allowing students to assemble their newly acquired skills into a smooth, integrated reading system for students to learn the essential knowledge and skills.

Students are tested and their reading level is determined. Students are then provided reading lessons in large groups and small-groups. For differentiating instruction, teachers work with students in small groups on their reading level with guided lessons while other students are working in centers or stations to reinforce skills taught.

Technology is integrated into reading, writing and math curriculums in all Pre-K through 1st grade classrooms. Classrooms are also scheduled weekly to the computer lab for whole class technology instruction. Parents must sign a user agreement regarding the appropriate student use of computers. 

TEKS Resource System is an instructional program, the curriculum is the scope and sequence in which the objectives and skills are implemented. SMSD uses the TEKS Resource System curriculum. To access the parent portal to TEKS Resource System go to:http://www.tcmpc.org/

To access the handbook of the Texas Curriculum requirements, log onto:
www.tea.state.tx.us/teks/handbook/19tac74.pdf

Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS)

TEKS are the objectives and skills that must be covered in the classroom for each subject and grade level. The TEKS can be accessed by going to www.tea.state.tx.us/teks/.

DRA

DRA (Developmental Reading Assessment) is an assessment to determine reading fluency and on grade level reading ability. To guide instruction, DRA is given 3 times per year.

TPRI

The TPRI (Texas Primary Reading Inventory) is given to all Kindergarten and 1ST grade students 3 times per year to determine reading skills of each student. Instruction is prescribed based on the students’ reading skills.

Credit By Exam

Testing is offered on scheduled testing dates to provide a way for students who have good command of the subject areas or course content to accelerate to the next level.

Benchmarks

To assist in instructional planning, periodic benchmarks are given to assess student’s progress throughout the year.

ITBS

The Iowa Test of Basic Skills is given to all kindergarten and 1st grade students in the fall. Test scores are used for G/T identification and other instructional/educational purposes.