Our Impact

The K-3i Board and the Advisory Council have consistently defined/measured success of the K-3 Proficiency Project three ways:

  • Percentage improvement of third grade students within, at or above reading proficiency, comparing September STAR data to May STAR data.
  • K-3 student progress and growth in reading based on STAR data from September and May testing results
  • Achieve positive survey results of K-3 teaching staff with their opinion and effectiveness of K-3PP for them and their students 

Star Reading

Proficiency

Growth

Dr. Dennis Ciancio, PhD with SignalPoint Research came to the following conclusion after the 2025/26 school year results:

“K-3PP is a strong, evidence-aligned early-literacy model that produces measurable improvements in student outcomes and strengthens schoolwide instructional systems when implemented with fidelity.”

Dr. Dennis Ciancio, PhD is an educational researcher and founder of SignalPoint Research.  He supports literacy and learning initiatives through data driven evaluation and program design.

At SignalPoint Research, we transform data into actionable insights, helping mission-driven organizations uncover the true signals of their impact. Founded on the principle that evidence should lead to action, SignalPoint partners with education initiatives, learning programs, and nonprofits to bridge the gap between research and results. 


Dr. Ciancio has evaluated the K-3 Proficiency Project and states that the findings are compelling.  Schools using K-3PP are showing measurable growth in student reading performance, increased teacher confidence and more focused, responsive classroom instruction.

– Alexis Cala, Superintendent, Bennett Valley School District


Within just the first few months of implementation, we have already seen significant literacy gains.   Students are visibly engaged, proud of their progress, and eager to share their learning.  The K-3 Proficiency Project is a game-changer for early literacy!

Boosting achievement

The K-3 Proficiency Project model is designed to assist educators and improve student outcomes. To truly succeed, the K-3 Proficiency Project needs support and engagement from the communities we serve. We operate in partnership with the schools getting involved to support our efforts. Then, together, we all benefit – every student, teacher, parent, school, and our Sonoma County community. Contact us if your school would like to be considered for K-3 Proficiency Project.