Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I get a copy of a publication?

Most Vaughn Gross Center publications are available for Texas educators and can be downloaded from this Web site. If you are not a Texas educator or would like to purchase additional copies of publications, e-mail licensing@texasreading.org.

What are the Center’s mailing and shipping addresses?

See the contacts page.

Does the Center offer testing or tutoring?

No.

What assessments can/should I use to determine any students’ reading abilities?

The Vaughn Gross Center can not endorse any specific assessments or programs.

In 2002, the Reading First Assessment Committee conducted an Analysis of Reading Assessment Instruments for K-3. Each assessment on the list was examined to determine which of the core elements of reading instruction (phonemic awareness, phonics/word study, fluency, vocabulary, and reading comprehension) it assesses and its appropriate use (screening, diagnostic, progress monitoring, and/or outcome assessment). The list is downloadable as an Adobe PDF. The following provides a brief description of how each type of assessment may be used:

Outcome: To provide an overall evaluation of the effectiveness of the reading program
Screening: To quickly evaluate all students and help determine which students are at risk for reading difficulty and will need additional intervention
Diagnostic: To provide in-depth information about students’ instructional needs to aid teachers in planning instruction
Progress Monitoring*: To determine if students are making adequate progress or need additional intervention to achieve grade-level reading outcomes

Resource: Reading First Assessment Committee. (2002). Four kinds of reading assessments. Presentation of The Secretary's Reading Leadership Academy. *The Reading First Assessment Committee (in part) defines “progress-monitoring assessment” as an “assessment conducted a minimum of three times a year.” It is important to note that not all assessments listed by the committee under progress monitoring are intended for frequent (weekly or biweekly) administration.

What is the target population for Center products?

Most Center products are designed for Elementary or Secondary reading and special education teachers, administrators, and faculty members who prepare future teachers in reading and/or special education.

I would like the Center to provide professional development in my region/district/school. Who should I contact?

If you are a Reading First school in Texas, contact the Office of Statewide Initiatives at the Texas Education Agency. If you would like professional development on a particular topic, please contact the project director identified on the website under each project description.

Where can I get information on the University Charter School?

See the University Charter School Web site.

Where can I find out about Teacher Reading Academies’ training?

In Texas, contact your Regional Educational Service Center for information on Academy availability. Outside of Texas, contact your state’s Reading First technical assistance provider.

How do I order the Texas Primary Reading Inventory (TPRI)?

Information on the TPRI can be found at www.tpri.org.