Reading
The elementary reading curriculum for Lynchburg City Schools is based on the Virginia English Standards of Learning for kindergarten through fifth grade. Using these standards, six weeks timelines have been developed to serve as a framework for language arts instruction in the eleven elementary schools. Based on these timelines, which are correlated to the Harcourt Trophies Reading Series, students receive daily instruction in reading, language, spelling, and writing in kindergarten through fifth grade. Harcourt, a research-based, developmental reading program was adopted by Lynchburg City Schools in 2004. The program emphasizes phonemic awareness, systematic phonics instruction, decoding skills, high frequency words, fluency, and comprehension. The instructional focus of Harcourt progresses from learning to read to reading to learn and ultimately, to learning for life. Elementary Instructional Reading Specialists are provided by the division to serve as a resource for all elementary schools. Questions about the reading curriculum should be addressed to Linda Williams (williamslt@lcsedu.net or 434-522-3700, ext.132) and Dixie Sears (searsdb@lcsedu.net or 434-522-3700, ext.132).
Lynchburg City Schools K-5 English Six Weeks Timelines
Title I
Lynchburg City Schools provides Title I services for students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Title I teachers are housed in all eleven elementary schools and serve students in the areas of reading and mathematics. Title I services afford supplemental instruction, focusing on specific skill deficits, which support daily classroom instruction. Questions about Title I services should be addressed to Michael K. Rudder, Director for Elementary Education (ruddermk@lcsedu.net or 434-522-3700, ext. 137) or Polly Cassady, Director for Federal Programs (cassadypn@lcsedu.net or 434-522-3756).
Elementary Summer School Programs
Lynchburg City Schools offers several opportunities for elementary students during the summer months. Remedial summer school is offered for kindergarten through fifth grade students enrolled in Lynchburg City Schools. This opportunity is available for students who have experienced difficulty in reading and math during the regular school year, but have made adequate progress to be promoted to the next grade. The half day program provides additional instruction, reinforcement, and practice for students in a small class setting, using a variety of methods and materials to meet individual student needs and deficits.
Summer enrichment programs are available to public and private school students in Lynchburg and the surrounding counties. Morning and afternoon classes are planned to accommodate busy schedules during the summer. Programs such as art and science are designed for students currently enrolled in grades K-5, who would enjoy, and benefit from, a variety of learning activities under the guidance of skillful and creative teachers. For information concerning fees and program offerings, contact Michael K. Rudder, Director for Elementary Education (ruddermk@lcsedu.net or 434-522-3700, ext. 137).