Reading First Literacy Coach, Mrs. Norma Gonzales ngonzales@kvisd.esc2.net

     In Spring 2003, the Texas Education Agency was awarded 79 million in Reading First funding to support the efforts to improve reading skills for students in kindergarten through third grade.   The plan is to provide expert guidance in the following areas: (1) the research, (2) the use of valid and reliable screening, diagnostic, progress monitoring and outcome assessment data to inform instructional practice and determine professional development and budget priorities, and (2) the implementation of the 3-Tier Reading Model to differentiate instruction and provide intervention support for students struggling with reading concepts.