CUMBERLAND - Reading First has been successful at increasing student reading comprehension, according to a new study from the U.S. Department of Education's contractor, American Institutes for Research.

Many state educational agencies, including Maryland, have reported gains in reading comprehension in Reading First students. Reading First is a structured, research-based program that provides reading instruction to students from kindergarten through third grade.

The Allegany County public school system has experienced improvements in reading through the Reading First program, according to Bob McKenzie, director of elementary education for the Allegany County Board of Education. The assessment tool, SAT-10, is used to measure Reading First progress, according to McKenzie.

The program is implemented in West Side and George's Creek elementary schools. All other elementary schools use a core reading program with a 90-minute reading block, according to McKenzie

"Reading First has done so much to crack the code on how to get kids to read," said U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings.

In first grade, 44 of 50 state educational agencies reported increases in the percentage of students proficient in reading comprehension. In second grade, 25 of 37 reported improvement; and in third grade, 17 of 32 reported improvement, according to the U.S. Department of Education.

Maryland reported improvement in reading comprehension in grades one through three.

Across the nation, gains were also made by English language learners and students with disabilities.

Reading First funds professional development; scientifically based instructional programs, materials, and strategies; valid and reliable screening; diagnostic and ongoing classroom assessments; and statewide accountability and leadership structures.

Contact Jennifer Raley at jraley@times-news.com.