NJ School District to Roll Out Literacy App

Next year, students in Englewood Public School District (EPSD) in Englewood, NJ will be able to use an app to practice reading at an early age.

EPSD selected Footsteps2Brilliance, a literacy app for pre-K–3 grade students, as part of a city-wide initiative to boost literacy. Its bilingual curriculum contains more than 1,000 interactive books, songs and games, offered in English and Spanish. Games like “Word Wall” engage students in spelling, while other games test reading comprehension. The interactive books feature audio lessons and illustrations to assist learners. Additionally, the app can be used on any smartphone, tablet or computer.

Robert Kravitz, superintendent of EPSD, said that Footsteps2Brilliance was selected for its ability to be customized. EPSD was able to help design the app to match their curriculum and serve a predominantly Hispanic (60 percent) and low-income student population. 

“We’re actively looking for student success in everything we do, and at the heart of success is an educated student who can read and write,” Kravitz said.

EPSD purchased the Footsteps2Brilliance program for $40,000 a year and plans to roll out the app in January.  

To learn more, visit the Footsteps2Brilliance site.

About the Author

Sri Ravipati is Web producer for THE Journal and Campus Technology. She can be reached at [email protected].

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