Conway Public Schools

Conway Public Schools recently welcomed parents, educators, board members, and local stakeholders to a public Community Reading Workshop, designed to gather meaningful input on improving student literacy outcomes across the district.

Held in a collaborative setting, the workshop invited attendees to engage in open dialogue around three essential questions. Participants brought a wide range of ideas and experiences to the table, and while many important themes emerged, the group collectively identified and prioritized the top three action items under each question. These priorities reflect a focused consensus on what matters most right now—and where immediate efforts should be directed.

1. What do we believe are the most significant barriers preventing students from becoming strong readers?
   
   

   • Lack of teacher training and support in reading instruction (beyond just curriculum)
     
     

   • Lack of curriculum consistency and fidelity across the district
     
     

   • Failure to fully implement Child Find mandates to identify struggling readers early
     
     

2. How can we make student reading progress more visible to everyone?
   
   

   • Create more parent-friendly interpretation of reading scores and data
     
     

   • Standardize progress monitoring and ensure understanding of 3rd grade retention requirements
     
     

   • Communicate directly with families about students’ reading improvement plans using clear, accessible language
     
     

3. What would you improve or change to make reading outcomes stronger in Conway Public Schools?
   
   

   • Adopt a research- and evidence-based, multi-sensory reading program aligned with the Science of Reading—implement it with fidelity and ensure strong Tier 1 instruction.

   • Provide teachers with in-depth training in reading instruction—not just how to use the curriculum.

   • Identify and serve all struggling readers early through targeted intervention and support.

As part of the workshop, participants also contributed to a “landing zone” discussion—posing a wide range of critical questions, from which the group prioritized the top questions to help guide future action:

• Why are we waiting so long to fix problems?
  
  

• Can all content teachers receive reading training?
  
  

• How can we implement consistent measures to monitor student progress and ensure early identification?
  
  

• Can we implement a dedicated line item budget for reading?
  
  

The district also presented a gap analysis, outlining the goal of increasing reading proficiency from 44% to 80% by 2030. The group helped identify both barriers and assets, helping CPSD focus efforts on closing achievement gaps and supporting all learners.

“This forum was about listening first—and using that insight to move forward with purpose,” said Dr. Bryce Bennett, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction. “We’re committed to doing the hard work of building a literacy foundation that lasts—and that takes all of us working together.”

Conway Public Schools extends sincere thanks to everyone who attended the workshop and contributed their time, ideas, and expertise. The collaboration and shared commitment displayed by our community are what make meaningful progress possible. We are grateful for your partnership as we continue working together to strengthen literacy for all CPSD students.