Oral Language · Phonics · Spelling · Handwriting · Reading · Writing · Science · Social Studies
ROW (ing) MODEL
ROW integrates key areas of instruction that are too often treated as isolated pillars and taught separately. When all the domains of language, literacy, and content knowledge are coordinated and reinforced throughout the day — “rowing” together — instruction is both more efficient and effective. In the wake of this kind of deeply coordinated effort are strong student outcomes.
Early Results
ROW is being developed in close collaboration with an initial set of pilot schools in Cincinnati to ensure that the program is both evidence-based and classroom-ready.
At our first pilot school (2025-26), kindergarteners made substantial gains in foundational skills, measured with Acadience Reading K-6 and CUBED-3 (oral language measure):
23
students were in the initial pilot kindergarten class, in a school that is 100% free and reduced-price lunch and 91% English learners.
100%
of kindergarteners reached or exceeded the Acadience Reading Composite benchmark by end of year, up from 39% at baseline.
50%
of kindergarteners reached or exceeded the CUBED-3 Narrative Language Measure Composite benchmark by end of year, up from 0% at baseline.
Dataset | Fall | Spring | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
ROW K Pilot Class Average Score | 6.6 (-14.4 pts below benchmark) | 29.2
(+0.2 pts above benchmark) | +22.6 pts |
National Benchmark | 21 | 29 | +8 pts |
ROW Instruction
ROW is designed to be implemented through a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), with aligned materials for all instructional tiers, so extra support truly reinforces core instruction and never feels like a separate, disconnected program.
CORE COMPONENTS (TIER 1)
Tier 1 instruction is comprised of four connected components that integrate reading, writing, science, social studies, and oral language, providing all students with a solid foundation. Consistent routines and active student responding opportunities are woven throughout the day, helping teachers put the best of what we know from learning science into practice.
Reading Launch
Systematic, explicit instruction in phonemic awareness, phonics, spelling, and fluency to provide all students with a strong foundation.
Writing Adventures
Focused time for foundational writing, including letter names and formation; word, sentence, and paragraph writing; grammar and syntax.
Knowledge Navigators
Deep exploration of science and social studies content through interactive read-alouds, vocabulary, discussions, shared writing, and hands-on activities.
Language Crew
Purposeful conversation and structured activities lay the foundation for vocabulary, syntax, phonemic awareness, and grammar in meaningful contexts.
TARGETED & INTENSIVE INTERVENTION (TIER 2 & 3)
Tier 2 and Tier 3 interventions are built directly into ROW, providing increasingly intensive support that stays connected to what students are learning in core instruction.
TIER 2
Word Recognition Lift
Provides an additional dose or “second scoop” of explicit phonics instruction, giving students additional practice and support with foundational skills. Built-in mastery monitoring helps teachers identify needs and target instruction where students need it most.
TIER 2
Language Comprehension Lift
Aligns with topics in Knowledge Navigators; activities include a wordless book routine, oral storytelling, oral narratives, and rereads of authentic children's literature, with a deeper focus on syntax, grammar, and vocabulary.
TIER 3
Individualized Intensive Support
Focused, intensive instruction in both word recognition and language comprehension, including phonics, fluency, vocabulary, oral language, and writing.
The ROW Team
We are working with leading experts in the science of reading, science of learning, and implementation science, as well as practicing teachers, to ensure that ROW is both evidence-based and classroom-ready.
CORE TEAM
Dr. Amy Murdoch
Director & Chief Advisor
Dr. Janice Kohler
Project Director
Dr. Tambra Isenberg
Curriculum Developer
Dr. Meghan Martin
Curriculum Developer
Dr. Larissa Phillips
Implementation Specialist
Traci Muellerleile
Curriculum Developer
Sarah McCartt-Jackson
Curriculum Developer
Dr. Elizabeth Corbo
Curriculum Developer
Dr. Pamela Kastner
Advisor
Dr. Jamey Peavler
Advisor
MICRO EXPERTS
Erin Eighmy
Blythe Wood
Sarah Martin
Julia Salamone
Dr. Renata Archie
Dr. Janel Bowman
Dr. Una Malcolm
Dr. Mercedes Davila
Dr. Tiffany Seaman
Our Roadmap
ROW is in active development. Here is our path to a wider launch.
2025–26
First pilot
Kindergarten pilot in our first school. Early Acadience and CUBED results are in and show strong gains.
2026–27
Expanding the pilot
Piloting PreK through 1st grade across three partner schools in Cincinnati, Ohio.
2027–29
Refine and broaden
Kindergarten pilot in our first school. Early Acadience and CUBED results are in and show strong gains.
2029–30
Soft launch
ROW becomes available to select partner schools and districts across the country.
Interested in Bringing ROW
to Your School?
If you’re interested in becoming a ROW partner, please share your contact information to receive updates on our progress and opportunities to learn more. Selected future partners may receive subsidized print materials, professional development, and coaching.