Philadelphia Safe and Sound (PSS), a leading research, best practice and child advocacy non-profit, has introduced an innovative program to improve literacy for students in its Beacon Programs. The web-based initiative, Achieve3000, has been proven to accelerate reading comprehension, vocabulary and writing proficiency of students in grades 2 to12. It will launch in ten Beacons Programs (school-based community centers) across the city and expand to fifteen more by the end of the year. In all, approximately 1,250 youth will benefit.

Philadelphia Safe and Sound's Best Practice Division manages and monitors more than 200 afterschool programs across Philadelphia. Included in this is the implementation of nationally recognized best practices proven to help keep children safe, foster academic achievement, and improve over all well-being. PSS worked to put Achieve 3000 into its programs in response to low student performance on standardized tests gauging literacy.

Literacy

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Education in the 2005-2006 academic year, 39.6 percent of PSSA test-takers in the School District of Philadelphia scored below basic in reading proficiency. Low literacy can lead to poor academic performance; lower likelihood for high school graduation; lower paying jobs over lifetime; and higher likelihood of live in poverty.

According to Wendy Johnson, PSS Director of Youth Programs, "Achieve 3000 is highly effective because it tailors assignments to appropriate reading levels and the needs of individual students. The assignments are based on current events and are interactive, engaging and motivating." Developed with input from the National Writing Commission and the National Reading Panel, Achieve 3000 has been proven effective in a number of scientific studies. It is currently used in programs and schools in 27 states including New Jersey, New York and Washington, DC.

Philadelphia Safe and Sound

Philadelphia Safe and Sound is an independent non-profit agency that collaborates with government, corporations, foundations, and community groups to conduct research and policy analysis; support and evaluate program reform and development based on best practices; and develop funding strategies to support services for children. PSS manages 159 Afterschool and 21st Century Community Learning Centers and 30 Beacon Programs.

Philadelphia Safe and Sound Beacon Programs are community centers located in schools. A Beacon serves families living in the neighborhood surrounding its host school and the children and youth who attend that and other schools within the defined community. Beacons are a strategy for rebuilding communities of support and improved academic success for children, youth and their families in urban neighborhoods.