Metro Atlanta county sets ambitious reading goal for students. Here’s how it plans to get there

Henry County Schools is rolling out a unified literacy plan aimed at helping more students become confident readers, with a goal of having at least 80% of students reading proficiently by 2029.

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The district says the plan will focus on improving reading and writing skills from elementary school through high school, using teaching methods based on the science of reading.

The goal is to make sure students have the literacy skills they need not only to succeed in school, but also in their future careers and everyday lives.

According to the district, its plan focuses on several areas, including improving classroom instruction, providing more small-group support for students who need it and using student assessments to identify where additional help is needed.

The district also wants to strengthen literacy instruction for older students, making sure middle and high school students continue developing reading, writing, speaking and critical-thinking skills across different subjects.

How will the plan work?

Henry County Schools says teachers will use state- and district-provided instructional materials, along with guidance from the Georgia Department of Education.

The district also plans to provide additional training and coaching for teachers focused on the science of reading and research-based teaching practices.

Students who need extra help will receive targeted support through the district’s Multi-Tiered System of Supports, known as MTSS. That framework uses student assessments to help determine what kind of instruction or intervention a student may need.

The plan also emphasizes support for students at different grade levels, including older students who may need additional help with reading and writing.

When does it take effect?

Under Georgia’s House Bill 1193, all school districts must adopt and submit a literacy plan by Jan. 1, 2027.

Henry County Schools says its plan incorporates state literacy initiatives, including guidance for adolescent literacy and requirements for structured literacy instruction.

The district says it also wants to strengthen partnerships with families and the community as it works toward its 2029 reading proficiency goal.

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