September 8th, 2025

Reading is a key skill for student success. To support students, the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) uses evidence-based tools to screen reading skills early in their education.

Elementary Early Reading Screening

Throughout the fall, WRDSB educators will assess the reading skills of all students in: 

  • Senior Kindergarten
  • Grade 1
  • Grade 2

Early reading screening supports the WRDSB Structured Literacy Multi-Year Plan (SLMYP) and is in line with directions provided by the Ministry of Education. 

Learn more about Early Reading Screening. 

The Purpose of Early Reader Screening Assessment

The results of this screening will help us determine how students are progressing with their reading skills.

Early reading screening helps to:

  • Track students development in early reading skills
  • Identify children who need more support
  • Guide classroom instruction

The results of early reading screening are not used to determine a student’s grades.

Sharing the Results with Families and Caregivers

Educators will communicate with families and caregivers about their students’ literacy and language skills throughout the school year. They will discuss the students: 

  • Strengths and examples of growth 
  • Areas where they need support

Screening results for all students will be shared through the Kindergarten Communication of Learning or Elementary Provincial Report Card. This will be issued on February 9, 2026. 

Questions?

Speak to your child’s teacher or principal for more information about their reading. 

About the Structured Literacy Multi-Year Plan (SLMYP)

The Structured Literacy Multi-Year Plan (SLMYP) helps all WRDSB students develop the literacy skills they need to help them succeed in the classroom and life. Early reading screening supports the SLYMP and is in line with guidance provided by the Ministry of Education.