‘Sophie’s Choice’ in the Classroom


Do teachers move forward to cover the objectives associated with the standardized test for that grade? Or do they slow down and make sure their students master the material before moving ahead?

CLI Impacts Student’s Early Reading Skills

When Luiz walked into the classroom that morning he didn’t know it was going to be the day he would read his first book. Laura, the CLI Professional Developer and Rose, the kindergarten teacher, had been working on getting the students to build their reading stamina using sight words, familiar poetry and leveled texts.

Books That Help Create a Class Community Through Read Alouds

Making students feel at home in the classroom is a top priority for teachers during the fall. Teachers create cozy reading spaces, begin to develop rituals and routines, and help students understand the value of their contributions and hard work. Conversations about families can help foster connections among students and highlight diversity.

How to Help Your Child Transition From Kindergarten to First Grade

Happy 1st GraderThe transition from Kindergarten to First Grade is a big one, and may seem intimidating to parents and kids. The best thing you can do to help your new first-grader prepare for the school year is have conversations at home about what they can expect. Start out by explaining how first grade is different from Kindergarten.

Why reading? Why third grade? Why CLI?

Teacher in Class

“Children’s Literacy Initiative (CLI) is a non-profit that works with teachers to transform instruction so that children can become powerful readers, writers and thinkers.”

This is why we come to work every day – a core belief that the cornerstone of

Our Favorite Back To School Apps for Teachers

September is here and teachers everywhere are busy preparing for the school year ahead. If you are one of the growing number of teachers who uses a smartphone or tablet in the classroom, you may be searching for some useful apps to help communicate with families, conduct assessments, or allow your students practice literacy skills. We’ve put together a list of some of our favorite free apps for educators, so all you have to do is hit download and get teaching!

Getting the ABC’s of learning to read with the Children’s Literacy Initiative

September 2, 2014 CLI’s new executive director, Dr. Joel Zarrow, PhD, was recently introduced to Philadelphia educators, board members and city officials at its Market St. offices. Zarrow made sure his audience understood his commitment to bringing kids in grades K-3 up to “snuff” and grade level when it comes to reading and writing. View Article