About English Language Arts

The NCESD English Language Arts (ELA) department works throughout our region with school districts to assist in the implementation of the Washington State Learning Standards for English Language Arts and the Smarter Balanced Assessment System. Our staff can provide job-embedded learning that engages teachers in constructive teaming  to improve teaching practices and student learning.

ELA Services include:

  • Regional English Language Arts Fellows Convenings
  • Washington State Learning Standards
  • Smarted Balanced Assessment System and Formative Assessment processes
  • Foundational Literacy Skills
  • Content-Area Literacy (e.g.: science, humanities, mathematics)
  • Writing from Sources with Evidence
  • Differentiated Instruction (e.g.: ELL, highly capable, SPED)
  • Building Background Knowledge and Academic Language
  • Facilitating Literacy Adoptions

Vertical Progressions

The vertical progression documents show each standard from Kindergarten up to  the College & Career Anchor Standard. They illustrate the importance on understanding the vertical alignment of the Common Core State Standards.

Vertical Progression for Reading

Vertical Progression for Writing

Vertical Progression for Language

Vertical Progression for Speaking and Listening

Progression of Reading Standards with Text Complexity and Sample Tasks

Our English Language Arts Staff


Jane Schuyleman

ProServ Administrative Assistant
Email Jane Schuyleman
509-667-3631

Shanna Brooks

Regional Literacy Coordinator / K-12 NTC Project GLAD® Trainers
Email Shanna Brooks