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We wanted to provide you with information on how we are working to build strong readers, which in turn leads to deeper comprehension, higher grades across all subjects, improved critical thinking, greater confidence in school and more. In 2019, CUSD 200 began a journey to narrow the third-grade reading gap. Partnering with EAB, CUSD 200 leaders found that EAB’s research on the Science of Reading provided insight into how to effectively teach students to read by focusing on foundational skills in the early grades. 

The research emphasized the importance of explicit instruction in foundational skills during the early grades, setting the stage for lifelong reading success.

After much study and the pilot of materials by teachers, the district adopted Bookworms Reading and Writing beginning with the 2023-24 year. Rooted in the Science of Reading, all students in general education classrooms now receive their core reading and writing instruction through Bookworms.

How Bookworms Aligns with the Science of Reading

Some key ways it supports students include:

• Explicit and systematic foundational skill instruction – Students learn grade-level skills every day and also receive targeted support during a dedicated Differentiated Instruction (DI) block. This targeted time helps prevent reading difficulties before they grow.
  

• Knowledge building through high-quality texts – Students read rich, complex books that expand their background knowledge and vocabulary.

A strong focus on fluency – Daily Shared Reading gives students regular opportunities to practice and improve their reading fluency.

Supporting Teachers Through Professional Learning

To ensure success, CUSD 200 teachers have engaged in ongoing professional learning. Training takes place during Institute Days and is reinforced through coaching support in each building. These opportunities help teachers deliver Bookworms effectively while meeting the needs of every student.

Congratulations to the following students who were named 2026 National Merit Semi Finalists: Sean Alvarez, Emma Carroll, Eilonwy Quetua, Jonah Taylor, Jenna Wilkinson from Wheaton North and Ethan Farrell from Wheaton Warrenville South. 

These academically talented high school seniors represent less than one percent of U.S. high school students and now have the opportunity to compete in the spring for nearly 7,000 scholarships worth a combined $26 million.

This fall more than 100 Illinois High School Girl’s Volleyball teams will participate in matches to raise money and awareness for breast cancer research. This year, Wheaton Warrenville South High School will host “Dig Pink,” a special event benefiting the Side-Out Foundation. This foundation awards grants to medical research

organizations and entities dedicated to providing support to breast cancer patients and their families. Join us for “Dig Pink” on Oct. 8 as WWSHS girls’ volleyball teams play at Plainfield North. Soph, Frosh A and JV start at 4:30 pm (Frosh B directly after Frosh A). The Varsity match starts at approximately 6:30 p.m. Businesses are sought to contribute a donation for the silent auction. They will be recognized via announcements at the match. Please contact Coach Schreier at 630-930-8983 to contribute.