Delaware Charter School Students Maintains High Reading Scores

East Side Charter School in Wilmington, Delaware, implemented the Direct Instruction programs Reading Mastery, Reasoning and Writing, and Spelling Mastery school-wide beginning in 1998. The charter school serves approximately 160 students in grades PreK–7, most of whom are from economically disadvantaged backgrounds; 85% qualify for free or reduced-price lunch, and 92% are African American. The school focuses on improving academic outcomes for children considered at-risk, with goals to close achievement gaps, reduce special education placements, and increase readiness for high school and advanced subjects.

Following the introduction of the Direct Instruction programs, Grade 3 reading performance on the Delaware Student Testing Program rose from 20% of students meeting or exceeding state standards in 1999 to 83% in 2000 and reached 100% by 2003. Although scores slightly declined in 2004 and 2005, they remained well above earlier levels. The school also reported strong math performance, with Grade 3 students outperforming all other schools in the state by 2003. Principal Will Robinson attributed ongoing improvement to consistent use of structured reading programs and strong parental involvement. Parents are required to volunteer monthly, attend meetings, and read with their children daily.