During the Gadsden Independent Schools District (GISD) School Board meeting on April 26, 2025, significant strides were made in enhancing secondary literacy and intervention strategies. Superintendent Dempsey highlighted the transition from the traditional Response to Intervention (RTI) model to the new Multilayered System of Supports (MLSS), which aims to provide a more fluid and integrated approach to student support.

The MLSS framework emphasizes three tiers of intervention, focusing primarily on classroom instruction (Tier 1) while also providing targeted support for students who need additional help (Tier 2) and more intensive interventions (Tier 3). This shift is designed to ensure that all students receive the necessary resources to succeed academically.

Key initiatives discussed included a partnership with the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) to enhance literacy practices through professional development for teachers. Approximately 80 secondary teachers have participated in this program, which aims to equip educators with effective literacy strategies tailored for adolescent learners. The district is also preparing for the statewide implementation of the AIM Pathway to Reading program, which will begin next year, with Gadsden schools already receiving early start grants to advance their literacy efforts.

The meeting also addressed the importance of disciplinary literacy, which focuses on teaching students to read and write within specific content areas, such as science and social studies. This approach is crucial as students transition from learning to read in elementary school to reading to learn in secondary education.

In addition to literacy initiatives, the board discussed the adoption of new science textbooks. The review process involved campus committees evaluating materials recommended by the state, ensuring they meet the needs of language learners and students with disabilities. The top-ranked publishers for high school materials were identified, with Savas leading the selection.

The board's discussions underscored a commitment to improving educational outcomes for all students, particularly in literacy and science education. As the district moves forward, the focus will remain on implementing these strategies effectively and ensuring that all students are prepared for future academic challenges.