English Language Arts
Our school aligns its English Language Arts curriculum with Utah’s P-12 Literacy Framework to ensure students develop essential literacy skills. The framework emphasizes creating literate citizens through a balanced approach to reading, writing, speaking, listening, and language development. In grades K-8, we use evidence-based strategies and curriculum that support explicit, systematic instruction in foundational reading skills, comprehension, vocabulary, and writing processes. This includes structured phonics instruction for younger learners and scaffolding students’ abilities to analyze and respond to increasingly complex texts as they progress through the grades.
In addition, we emphasize the integration of literacy across all content areas, critical thinking, and diverse reading experiences that reflect students’ identities and foster a love for reading. Our educators employ ongoing assessments to monitor progress and provide targeted interventions to meet the needs of every learner. By aligning our practices with the P-12 Literacy Framework, we aim to prepare all students for success in school, career, and civic life.
K-2
Our K-2 classrooms use a comprehensive curriculum aligned with the Utah Core Standards and Utah’s P-12 Literacy Framework to build a strong foundation in literacy. For phonics instruction, we implement the UFLI Foundations program, which provides explicit, systematic teaching of foundational reading skills essential for early learners. Additionally, we use HMH Into Reading to support students in developing reading comprehension, vocabulary, writing, and critical thinking skills. These resources are designed to align with the Utah Core Standards by promoting literacy through engaging, evidence-based instruction tailored to meet the diverse needs of our students.
To ensure that all students are making progress, we use Acadience for regular progress monitoring. This data-driven approach allows our teachers to provide targeted interventions and support, ensuring every child reaches their full potential as a reader. Together, these tools and strategies help us foster confident, capable readers who are well-prepared for future learning.
3-5
In our 3-5 classrooms, we use HMH Into Reading as our core English Language Arts curriculum, fully aligned with the Utah Core Standards and the Utah P-12 Literacy Framework. This program emphasizes reading comprehension, vocabulary development, and critical thinking through engagement with diverse, complex texts. It also provides students with opportunities to strengthen their writing skills across various genres, fostering the ability to communicate effectively.
By integrating explicit instruction with collaborative learning opportunities, HMH Into Reading helps students deepen their understanding of language and literacy while building confidence as independent readers and writers. This curriculum ensures our students are well-prepared for success in middle school and beyond, meeting the rigorous expectations of the Utah Core
6-8
In our 6-8 classrooms, we implement HMH Into Literature as the foundation of our English Language Arts curriculum. This program aligns with the Utah Core Standards and Utah’s P-12 Literacy Framework, offering students opportunities to explore challenging texts that encourage analysis, critical thinking, and meaningful discussion. The curriculum focuses on refining students' ability to interpret and respond to literature while honing their skills in evidence-based writing and effective communication.
Through collaborative activities and a focus on higher-order thinking, HMH Into Literature equips students with the tools to engage deeply with content and express their ideas confidently. These experiences prepare them for the academic challenges of high school and empower them as thoughtful, literate individuals ready to navigate an increasingly complex world.