September 2026 Update - Preparing for Field Testing
The BC Literacy Screening Project continues to make progress toward developing a new literacy screening tool for students in Kindergarten to Grade 3. Following initial piloting in June 2026, the team is preparing for field testing in schools across British Columbia from October 15 to November 13, 2026.
During June’s piloting, we tried out different components, or subtests, of the screener and gathered valuable feedback from teachers on administering the activities. Their practical insights are helping us refine the screener and prepare for fall field testing. This early involvement of educators is an important part of developing a tool that is both useful and practical for schools.
This fall’s field testing will build on that foundation, helping us better understand how the screening activities work with students across participating schools. This important stage will inform further refinements as development continues.
Alongside preparations for field testing, we are collaborating with BC authors to create original reading passages for future versions of the screener. These passages are being developed to be engaging, grade-appropriate, and reflective of children and communities across the province, while meeting the specific requirements of a literacy screening tool.
We look forward to working with participating schools this fall and are grateful to the educators, students, and authors contributing to this work. Their participation will help shape a tool that supports students.