Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA)

Strong Readers. Curious Thinkers. Confident Learners.

At Kingston City Schools, we are committed to ensuring every child learns to read — and uses reading to learn. In our elementary classrooms, we use Amplify Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA), a high-quality literacy program that builds strong reading skills while sparking curiosity and deep thinking. CKLA helps students grow not just as readers, but as learners who understand the world around them.

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What Learning Looks Like in CKLA Classrooms

Reading That Matters Students read, listen to, and discuss engaging texts about science, history, literature, and the arts. These lessons build knowledge, expand vocabulary, and make learning meaningful.

Strong Foundations in Reading In the early grades, students receive clear, structured instruction in phonics, decoding, and fluency — helping them become confident, capable readers.

Thinking, Talking, and Writing Every Day Students regularly share ideas, ask questions, and write about what they read. This strengthens comprehension, communication, and critical-thinking skills.

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Why This Approach Works

Students understand texts better when they have background knowledge. CKLA is designed to build that knowledge over time, supporting stronger comprehension across all subjects.

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Support for Every Learner

CKLA includes built-in supports and enrichment opportunities so that all students can access grade-level learning and continue to grow.

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What You Will See at Home

At home, you may notice your child talking more about what they are learning, using new vocabulary, and growing in confidence as a reader. Reading and writing are closely connected in CKLA, which helps students better understand and explain their ideas.

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What CKLA Means for Our Students

Through CKLA, Kingston City Schools students are building strong reading skills, growing their vocabulary and world knowledge, learning to think critically, and gaining confidence as readers and writers. This program reflects our district's commitment to high-quality instruction, engaging classrooms, and a strong foundation for lifelong learning.