CT-RILI: Connecticut Research and Innovation in Literacy Intervention
Connecticut has been awarded a five-year, $10 million federal grant to help young students who struggle with reading. CT-RILI brings small-group reading intervention, coaching, and classroom supports to elementary schools across the state. The project is led by the Center for Literacy Research and Reading Success.
What CT-RILI does
CT-RILI supports students in kindergarten through grade 3 who have significant reading difficulties. Participating schools receive:
- Small-group reading intervention for students who need extra support
- Instructional materials and professional learning for educators
- Ongoing coaching from literacy experts
- Tools to monitor student progress and guide instruction
The project also studies how positive behavioral supports can keep students engaged and make the most of instructional time. It aligns with Connecticut's Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) framework.
"We want every child in Connecticut to have the opportunity to become a strong reader and develop a lifelong love of learning."
Governor Ned Lamont
How it builds on Connecticut's literacy work
CT-RILI expands the state's literacy strategy under the Right to Read legislation. That work includes K-3 literacy assessments, instructional materials, the Science of Reading Masterclass, and literacy coaching for schools. The grant comes from the U.S. Department of Education's Education Innovation and Research program.
Our partners
- University of Connecticut, Neag School of Education
- HILL for Literacy
- Fordham University
- Connecticut school districts
Timeline
CT-RILI starts small and grows each year of the grant:
- 2026-27: Pilot in three schools
- 2027-28: First cohort of 24 schools
- Over five years: Network of 75 schools
How your school can get involved
Recruitment and webinar details are coming soon. Check back here, or email us with questions (see contact information below).
News and updates
Contact us
Have questions or ideas about CT-RILI? Contact:
Melissa K. Wlodarczyk Hickey, Ed.D.
Director, Center for Literacy Research and Reading Success
Melissa.Hickey@ct.gov