The Science of Reading in Action: How Catch Up & Read Drives Student Growth
At Catch Up & Read, we know when teachers are equipped with the right tools, strategies, and support, students thrive. Catch Up & Read has a proven approach to literacy that transforms student learning. And the best part? We’re seeing real results as it is implemented in classrooms every day.
Proven Growth: The Impact on Students
The numbers tell a powerful story. In the 2023-24 school year, 94% of students participating in Catch Up & Read experienced growth in reading—a testament to the effectiveness of structured literacy instruction. Catch Up & Read students consistently demonstrated higher achievement, exceeding both campus and district averages on key reading assessments.
For students like Shailey, the impact of Catch Up & Read goes beyond test scores—it’s about confidence and empowerment.
“I used to get made fun of because I would get the word wrong, and they all started laughing, so I felt sad. I wanted to cry. I feel like Catch Up & Read helped me. This changed my life.”
This transformation is why Catch Up & Read isn’t just another reading program—it’s a catalyst for long-term success.
Empowering Teachers, Strengthening Classrooms
A key part of Catch Up & Read’s success is our commitment to investing in teachers. Literacy professional development ensures that best practices don’t just stay in Catch Up & Read sessions—they carry over into everyday instruction. As a result, teachers feel more equipped, confident, and effective in their roles.
“What is unique about Catch Up & Read is that you truly invest in our teachers. Catch Up & Read’s professional development provides teachers with best practices and strategies in literacy. Teachers use these strategies and practices not only with Catch Up & Read students, but also in class throughout the day. And you see the impact—all their students get better!”
— M. Eva Calixto, Principal, Nathan Adams Elementary
The impact is clear: 95% of Catch Up & Read teachers report that the program made them more effective educators. Notably, new teachers in Catch Up & Read had a 100% retention rate, highlighting the program’s role in fostering long-term success in the profession.
“I had resources from the school district, but being a first-year teacher was overwhelming. Without Catch Up & Read, I wouldn’t be as successful as I was my first year of teaching.”
Building a Culture of Literacy
At Cuellar Elementary, Catch Up & Read has become deeply embedded in the school’s culture.
“Catch Up & Read is part of our culture. We don’t think of it as an afterschool program—it’s so integral to what we do, we think of it as part of our day. The kids love it, the teachers love it!”
— Shelley Baxter, Principal, Cuellar Elementary
This enthusiasm extends to families as well. 100% of Catch Up & Read parents say they would recommend the program, and 96% of Catch Up & Read students report that their teacher encourages them to do their best.
The Future of Literacy Success
The Catch Up & Read approach works—and we are proving it in classrooms across the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. By equipping teachers, empowering students, and engaging families, we’re making literacy success an expectation, not an exception.
With continued investment in research-backed literacy strategies and a community dedicated to student growth, we’re building a future where every child has the reading skills—and the confidence—to succeed.