PENNSYLVANIA DISTRICT CASE STUDY: Elementary Schools Improve Phonics Instruction and Intervention Effectiveness Across Grades

In this Pennsylvania district case study, you’ll discover how a concentrated focus on systematic phonics instruction and strategic use of Lexia® Core5® Reading helped educators elevate reading proficiency across grades. 

With the superintendent aiming to increase third grade reading proficiency from 53% to 90%, district leaders selected Core5 for its research-based approach and real-time student data. Educators and administrators quickly recognized the platform’s impact. An assistant principal praised how easily she could review usage data for a quick snapshot of performance, while a principal noted a 14% surge in PSSA scores and a 10-point rise in the School Performance Profile after just a year and a half.

With six targeted domains—phonological awareness, phonics, vocabulary, structural analysis, automaticity/fluency, and comprehension—Core5 personalizes each student’s path to reading success. The result? Gains for every learner, from at-risk to advanced, validated by rigorous data.

By emphasizing program fidelity—ensuring consistent usage and integrating Lexia Lessons® into guided reading—teachers saw student usage jump from 39% to 90% in one school year. Principals’ regular check-ins boosted accountability, and the district surpassed its first-year Core5 usage target, reaching 78%.

If you’re looking for proven strategies to strengthen phonics instruction, accelerate literacy gains, and foster educator buy-in, this case study provides actionable insights for real-world success. Learn how educators at this district built a cohesive approach to reading, harnessed advanced data tools, and achieved remarkable results for every student.