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By Carey Reeder | Managing Editor

Isabella High School and the Chilton County School District were both recently recognized in the announcement of the 2024-2025 Alabama Reading Initiative Science of Reading Spotlight recipients.

Isabella High School was one of 14 Alabama schools recognized as a 2024-2025 ARI Science of Reading Spotlight School, and the Chilton County School District was one of just two school districts across the state selected for the honor. Both entities were recognized for their progress in ensuring all students can read on grade level before they leave the third grade.

“Being named an ARI Spotlight School is a direct reflection of the hard work, dedication and the impact our teachers are making on our students and school,” Isabella High School Principal Ricky Porter said.

The spotlight schools and districts were selected based on their Alabama Comprehensive Assessment Program Data Reading Growth, the commitment to student-centered coaching, strong leadership structures, local reading specialist and principal partnerships, having Science of Reading trained staff, Alabama Literacy Act implementation and other statistics. This gives a well-rounded look at which schools and districts are taking the steps needed to assure their students are on pace with their reading levels.

The Alabama Reading Initiative spotlights these specific schools and districts to allow teachers, reading specialists and administrators from other schools across the state to visit and see others in their field implementing the Science of Reading principles well.

IHS held a reception on Nov. 14 to celebrate their spotlight selection and recognize their outstanding kindergarten through third grade teachers and reading interventionists and specialists who played an important role in the school’s honor. Those include Amber Chadwick, Tiffany Cleckler, Morgan Leonard, Baylee Minor, Susie Mitchell, Laurie O’Dell, Casey Pairrett, Anita Price, Sonya Robinson, Wendy Smith, Tammy Smitherman, Irene Thomas, Haley Underwood, Mindy Whittle and Kathy Williams.