Assessment of Foundational Reading Skills (AFRS)
Empower Literacy. Transform Futures.
The Assessment of Foundational Reading Skills (AFRS) tool is a standout professional development opportunity for educators. Since 2010, AFRS has empowered thousands of educators across hundreds of schools in Alberta to identify and support students at risk for reading difficulties. More than just a screener, AFRS equips teachers with actionable insights to inform instruction—making it a uniquely valuable tool in early literacy development. Grounded in the Science of Reading, AFRS equips teachers with the tools to identify early literacy challenges through targeted screening and provides practical strategies for intervention.
The program is designed to give kindergarten and grade one teacher’s specific tools and skills to help ensure their students become successful readers and to screen for foundational reading skills to determine areas of weakness. Those children who continue to struggle may then be further assessed to ensure adequate support is available before more serious problems arise.
Classroom teachers who participate in the online training receive the Assessment of Foundational Reading Skills (AFRS) tool, the accompanying interventions manual for teachers, and the Teaching Foundational Reading Skills (TFRS) course.
Created for Kindergarten and Grade 1 screening, AFRS can also be administered to older struggling readers, and English Language Learners. Approved by Alberta Education as a classroom screener. Aligned with Alberta ELAL curriculum, and ready to be used in your school today. Previously known as the Right to Read – Reading Readiness Screening Tool (RRST), and the Literacy Assessment Certificate (LAC).
Why AFRS is so Impactful
What Teachers Have to Say
“Excellent! In 15 years, this is by far the best reading instruction I have learned.”
“I knew some of the content, but I was wowed by what I learned and how before I started the AFRS course, I didn’t have everything to make the information flow together. It helped me understand what needs to to learned and the order to teach it to the students.”
“I really value the AFRS course and all of the rich learning it provides. It’s so important that teachers understand that it’s not just about how to conduct the AFRS assessment, but what to do with that information.” Deputy Superintendent, Pembina Hills School Division
“I found the AFRS course immensely valuable in reaffirming and strengthening my existing teaching strategies, while providing me with additional insights and techniques to enhance my students’ literacy skills. It has allowed me to refine my approach, ensuring I continue to effectively support my students’ individual needs and foster a strong foundation in literacy.”
The AFRS tool was very useful in assessing my students’ phonological awareness, phonics, and reading & spelling skills. It clearly indicated the skills I needed to work on with groups of students. The AFRS course prepared me to both administer the AFRS tool and then implement effective instructional strategies.
“I’ve already had “Ah-ha” moments as to why my students are blocked.”
Interested in using AFRS in your School or District?
There are two ways to use AFRS:
- Teachers can individually purchase the course. Click HERE to register for the course.
- Schools and Districts can purchase an annual license that includes the course for teachers and on-going support at a group rate.
To learn more about using the AFRS in your school or district contact Teresa Nelson Keller, Executive Director at 780-448-0360 or email to: executivedirector@ldalberta.ca
