From the Superintendent
This is the third segment in a mini series around the 2025-26 district strategic priorities. This week's focus is implementation of a new PK-5 literacy curriculum resource known as Core Knowledge Language Arts, or CKLA.
A couple of years ago, I wrote a series pertaining to the Science of Reading and the importance of both phonics and comprehension as part of the process of reading. This was in response to recent research that strongly recommended balancing classroom literacy practices after decades of "whole language" approaches in schools across the United States. A literacy audit conducted as part of our Strategic Plan in 2018-19 found gaps in foundational literacy skills that led to greater examination of our instructional methodology. Over the last several years, elementary teachers and staff have learned more about approaches that align with the Science of Reading, such as the Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling, commonly known as LETRS. This course instructed teachers on the essential literacy skills that should be taught in alignment with evidence-based research, why these skills should be taught, and how to teach them.
The next step was completing a comprehensive PK-5 literacy pilot in 2024-25 that ultimately led to the purchase of CKLA and its implementation throughout the current school year. CKLA offers our students a cohesive curriculum resource across the elementary learning continuum, a goal of the current Strategic Plan. The program is specifically designed to include interactive read alouds, grade level text materials, and individual decodable reading books. CKLA uses multi-sensory phonics, sequenced texts that are rigorous and relevant, content knowledge in other subject areas like science and social studies, and writing development.
Because CKLA is based on the Science of Reading, it emphasizes direct, research-based instruction in both foundational skills and knowledge building. Foundational skills are essential for decoding text. Knowledge building supports comprehension of text, and both are necessary for skilled reading. CKLA is also based on the Science of Writing, integrating daily, explicit instruction in both transcription skills and composition skills. Transcription skills include spelling and handwriting while composition skills focus on the organizational process of writing, and both are necessary for developing skilled writers.
Many thanks to our PK-5 teachers, specialists, educational technicians, and administrators who are working hard to implement CKLA with fidelity. Much of the earmarked PK-5 professional learning time this year will be spent supporting staff as they implement this new curriculum resource.
Did you miss the first two segments of this series? Catch up here:
Summary of Priorities
New State Legislation involving Pre-K
Regards,
Jeff Porter
Fourth grade students enjoyed their walking field trip to Cumberland Town Hall to meet town employees and learn about local government, which connects to our October SEL theme of Citizenship!
Notices from the Office of the Superintendent
Minding Your Mind
Shape the Future: Name our School
Did you know that anyone can make a name suggestion?
We want to hear from you. What should we name this new school? Enter or submit your suggestions by the end of the month for a chance at your suggestion being brought to the Board of Directors.
Not sure how to submit a suggestion?
We've made it easy - here is the simple step process:
✍️ Signature Pages
Pick up a signature page at the District Office OR download and print one at home. All you need is 10 signatures from either community or staff members. Once completed, there are three ways to submit -
1. ✉️ Mail your submission to:
MSAD #51
Attn: Melissa Porter
PO Box 6A
Cumberland, ME 04021
2. 🚶Drop it off in person at:
MSAD #51 District Office
357 Tuttle Road, Cumberland ME 04021
Hours: Mon- Fri; 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
3. 💻 Digital Form Submission (no printing required)
📞 CONTACT FOR QUESTIONS
If you have any questions or need assistance, please reach out to:
Melissa Porter
Phone: 207-829-4800 ext. 1
Email: [email protected]
WE LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING YOUR IDEAS!
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MSAD #51 Board of Directors Information
All meetings will take place at 6:00 pm in the Gyger Room at Greely High School. For those of you unfamiliar with that room, the Gyger Room can be accessed from the GHS parking lot (the side without the electronic sign).
October 9 - Regular Meeting
Remember you can watch our meetings on YouTube LIVE (http://bit.ly/msad51livevideo)
Committee meetings this week:
October 8 - Policy
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Board of Directors Meeting Videos
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Greely Center for the Arts Events
If you would like something included in our weekly newsletter, please send a brief write up with title along with a JPEG or PNG image of your flyer (if applicable) to Melissa Porter for approval. The deadline each week is Wednesday. Any requests received after Wednesday will be reviewed for possible submission in the following week's newsletter. All approved submissions will be posted on the district's website.
Not all items in this email are MSAD #51 sponsored programs. If you need more information, please contact the group or organization that is sponsoring the event.
357 Tuttle Road, PO Box 6A, Cumberland, ME 04021
Contact Us | 207.829.4800