Date of Award

5-1-2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Education

Department

Education

Capstone Instructor

Dr. Tamara Nuttall

Second Reader

Dr. Kelly Sadlovsky

Keywords

early childhood education (ECE), literacy, interventions, achievement gaps

Abstract

This Capstone research study investigated ways early childhood literacy interventions can support healthy development in at-risk students. Children entered kindergarten at a wide range of literacy skill levels, and skill gaps could persist for years. Students who failed to read proficiently by third grade are less likely to finish high school. Research showed the potential for targeted early literacy interventions to positively impact outcomes for at-risk students. Interventions implemented by families, teachers, and trained volunteers all made a positive impact on academic achievement. Fidelity played an important role in effective intervention implementation, though challenges exist in real-world early childhood classrooms. Some studies explored the sustained effects of early childhood interventions on academic achievement in future schooling. The author drew upon current research to formulate practical applications for stakeholders, and suggested avenues for future study.

Keywords: early childhood education (ECE), literacy, interventions, achievement gaps

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