In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the literacy assessment results from the DIBELS 8 program, which is utilized to monitor reading progress among kindergarten through second-grade students in Robeson County. The DIBELS 8 assessment, conducted at the beginning, middle, and end of the academic year, consists of six subtests that evaluate essential reading skills and identify students at risk for reading challenges.

Data presented revealed a concerning trend: kindergarten students in Robeson County are performing significantly below state benchmarks. For instance, in the 2021-2022 school year, only 10% of kindergarten students in Robeson County scored at or above the benchmark at the beginning of the year, compared to 26% statewide. This gap persisted through the year, with 58% of Robeson County students reaching the benchmark by the end of the year, compared to 67% statewide.

The meeting highlighted the impact of socioeconomic factors on literacy outcomes, emphasizing the need for universal pre-kindergarten programs. The data showed a gradual improvement in reading readiness over the years, with kindergarten readiness levels increasing from 10% to 16% in recent assessments. First-grade students also demonstrated progress, with 39% at or above benchmark this year, up from 15% in 2021-2022.

Officials noted that while there is a steady increase in the percentage of students meeting benchmarks, the overall performance remains below state averages, underscoring the challenges faced by students in the district. The discussion also touched on the lack of preschool experience among incoming kindergarteners, with approximately 400 students enrolled in NC Pre-K or Title 1 Pre-K programs, although specific daycare data was not available.

The meeting concluded with a call for further analysis and support to enhance early literacy initiatives, aiming to close the achievement gap and improve educational outcomes for students in Robeson County.