Dr. Jones, a key speaker, detailed the program’s structure, explaining that it is designed to assess student strengths and weaknesses in reading and math, and to provide personalized instruction paths known as “my path.” Dr. Jones stressed the importance of parental support in fostering a positive outlook towards I-Ready, noting that the program is not a traditional test but a tool for enhancing learning. She encouraged parents to engage with their children about their progress and use the diagnostic reports to track growth over time.

The meeting also addressed concerns from parents about the reliance on technology for education, especially for younger students. One parent expressed skepticism, preferring traditional teaching methods over computer-based instruction. It was clarified that I-Ready complements the existing curriculum without replacing it, and that additional time had been allocated to math blocks to accommodate the program. The district reassured attendees that the program aligns with New Jersey’s learning standards, even if some discrepancies between classroom learning and I-Ready paths occur.

A significant portion of the discussion revolved around the technical aspects of using I-Ready at home. Parents inquired about the accessibility of the program from various devices and sought guidance on overcoming potential obstacles like parental controls that might block necessary URLs. The district provided solutions, such as utilizing public library computers and adjusting parental controls, and encouraged families to reach out for further assistance.

The session also covered parental strategies for creating effective study environments at home. Parents were advised to establish consistent routines and designate quiet areas for children to focus on their I-Ready lessons. The importance of monitoring progress through the Clever platform was highlighted, with suggestions for celebrating achievements and setting goals based on diagnostic results. The speaker emphasized the value of perseverance and patience, encouraging parents to reinforce positive attitudes towards learning.

Concerns were raised about the program’s difficulty level, with reports of children encountering unfamiliar content, such as multiplication questions, in their first diagnostics. The district explained that the assessment aims to gauge knowledge beyond the current curriculum level, helping tailor a learning path that fosters growth. Clarifications were made regarding the time students should spend on I-Ready at home, advising 10-15 minutes for younger students and 20-25 minutes for older ones each night.