Empowering Futures: Strengthening Literacy at Willmar Public Schools

In the spirit of February being I Love to Read Month, I felt compelled to share the significant impact that literacy has on the development of our students’ learning journeys. Literacy is often described as the gateway to education and the key to unlocking a world of knowledge and opportunity. At Willmar Public Schools, we recognize the importance of literacy in the development of our students’ learning journeys. It is the foundation upon which all other areas of instruction are built, and it plays a pivotal role in shaping their future success.

In our pursuit of continuous improvement, we have commenced the journey to strengthen literacy within our learning organization. Last school year our Elementary English Language Arts Curriculum Review Committee began reviewing a new reading curriculum, however, the 2023 legislative session prompted a change of course due to the passage of the READ Act. As per the guidelines set forth by the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE), beginning on July 1, 2024, every district was mandated to furnish teachers and instructional support staff entrusted with the responsibility of teaching reading with comprehensive training in evidence-based instruction. In addition, the MDE selected approved curricula, screeners, and interventions for literacy instruction.

Choosing the Right Path

The first step in our journey towards improved literacy and compliance with the READ Act involved selecting the most effective training program for our educators. A PreK-12 Literacy Committee of 31 educators has narrowed the choices to the Online Language and Literacy Academy (OL&LA) and Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling (LETRS). In February, our local cabinet, which includes superintendents, directors, and principals, reviewed these options and concluded that the Online Language & Literacy Academy (OL&LA) would be well-suited for our district. This program offers comprehensive training to equip our teachers with the knowledge and tools they need in their consistent pursuit of improving literacy instruction.

Minnesota’s READ Act has also created mandatory screeners for school districts throughout our state. As a result, the MDE selected the DIBELS 8th Edition and FastBridge which are both educational assessment tools used to measure students’ progress and proficiency in various aspects of reading and literacy. These tools are primarily utilized in elementary and middle school settings to help teachers identify students who may need additional support in reading, as well as to monitor the effectiveness of interventions and instruction over time.

A final requirement of the READ is selecting an approved curriculum if districts plan to use READ Act funds to pay for it. Currently, the MDE has approved the following curriculum.

Comprehensive Curricula

• EL Education, Open Up Resource, 2017

Foundational Curricula

• Magnetic Reading K-2, Curriculum Associates, copyright 2023

• UFLI Foundation K-2, copyright 2022

• University of MN Functional Phonics+Morphoology K-5, copyright August 2023

Knowledge Building Curricula

• Wit & Wisdom-Great Minds, copyright 2023

Our Team

Carrie Thomas, the Director of Teaching and Learning at Willmar Public Schools, invited staff members to join the PreK-12 Literacy Committee. This new committee was tasked with reviewing the MDE’s approved professional development options and mandatory literacy screening tools. Thirty-one members of our school district responded to this call to action, demonstrating the high value our staff places on literacy. We are proud of this response and extend our gratitude to the educators who became part of our guiding coalition.

The Minnesota Legislature mandated each district to appoint a Literacy Lead, a role we proudly filled this year with Katelyn Skudlarek. Katelyn brings a deep passion for literacy and a strong foundation in the science of reading. Throughout the year, she has conducted highly effective professional development sessions for our staff, laying the groundwork for the required upcoming training.

Focus and the Future

As we celebrate I Love to Read Month, Willmar Public Schools' dedication to advancing literacy highlights our commitment to empowering students with the skills necessary for lifelong success. Our journey, enriched by the expertise of passionate educators, underscores the collective effort to elevate literacy education. By selecting approved curricula and professional development programs, we are not only complying with the READ Act but are also laying a robust foundation for our students. As we move forward, our focus remains on nurturing a culture of reading that opens doors to endless possibilities for our students.

Celebrating Excellence in Education: National Recognition for Minnesota Leaders

The Midwest is known for its exceptional PreK-12 education systems, supported by well-aligned organizations, highly qualified teachers, and universities that do well in preparing future educators. Our local school districts are dedicated to the continuous development of their staff, supporting an environment where teachers, administrators, and support staff are all committed to enhancing student outcomes. This collective effort ensures that our educational systems lead to academic excellence.

This commitment to excellence was recently showcased at the American Association of School Administrator's (AASA) National Conference on Education, where Minnesota's educational leadership received positive recognition. Dr. Joe Gothard, Superintendent of the St. Paul Public School District, was honored as the AASA National Superintendent of the Year. Known for his courageous leadership and dedication to equitable education, Dr. Gothard's recognition is a testament to his unwavering commitment to ensuring inclusive educational opportunities for all students.

Additionally, Minnetonka's Superintendent, David Law, was named one of three finalists for the 2025 AASA President. This role is pivotal in guiding the organization's policy and representing the collective voice of the education community across the United States. Superintendent Law's candidacy highlights his and Minnesota's influential role in shaping national educational policies and practices. 

Both Dr. Gothard and Superintendent Law exemplify the spirit of collaborative leadership, valuing the contributions and successes of all school districts, regardless of size. Their recognitions not only underscore the exceptional quality of Midwest education but also celebrate the genuine leadership that drives our schools toward continuous improvement.

Minnesotans have every reason to take pride in our public education system. These national recognitions reinforce the belief that Minnesota's public school districts rank among the finest in the country, thanks to the dedication and excellence of our teachers, support staff, educational leaders, school board members, and communities.

Supporting Minnesota Students Beyond the Classroom: A Parent's Guide to Tax Credits and Educational Savings

Willmar Public Schools is committed to ensuring that our students and their families are aware
of important financial opportunities that can support their educational journey. We are happy to share information about significant tax benefits that can assist Minnesota families: the enhanced Child Tax Credit and tax deductions for educational expenses, including school supplies.

New Child Tax Credit Offers Financial Relief for Families

Minnesota families are now eligible to claim the Child Tax Credit, a substantial financial relief measure aimed at reducing child poverty and supporting the well-being of children across the state. The credit, which amounts to up to $1,750 per child, is available with no limitation on the number of children claimed. To claim the Child Tax Credit, families must file a 2023 individual income tax return. Most taxpayers eligible for this credit may also qualify for free tax preparation assistance. We encourage our community to explore the income requirements and qualifications detailed on the Child Tax Credit webpage provided by the state.

Tax Benefits for School Supplies: Save Your Receipts

In addition to the Child Tax Credit, the Minnesota Department of Revenue offers valuable tax benefits for parents purchasing school supplies for their K-12 students. Eligible purchases include most school supplies, field trips, and musical instruments for school bands. By saving receipts, parents can reduce their taxes and possibly increase their refund through the K-12 Education Credit and Subtraction.

The majority of Minnesota parents qualify for the K-12 subtraction, which lowers their taxable income. Furthermore, parents who meet certain income thresholds may be eligible for the K-12 credit, potentially refunding up to 75% of their costs, even for those who do not owe any taxes.

Act Now to Take Advantage of These Opportunities

Willmar Public Schools encourages families to explore these financial opportunities to support their children's education. Detailed information on how to claim these benefits can be found on the Minnesota Department of Revenue's website. We recommend visiting the site for comprehensive details on eligibility and how to apply for these tax benefits. You can access both of these opportunities via the below websites.

Child Tax Credit: https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/child-tax-credit

School Supplies: https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/press-release/2022-08-03/save-those-back-school-shopping-receipts-valuable-tax-benefits

Willmar Public Schools remains dedicated to supporting our students and their families both inside and outside the classroom. We believe that by sharing this important information, we can help ensure that our community is aware of the financial supports available to them.