USAID RFS-NPR Quarterly Report 2 FY 21 (January 1 to March 31, 2021)

The project's mission is to roll out the previously designed Arabic language grades 1-2 reading and writing program, develop a grades 3-4 curriculum and related materials, and pilot these materials in 90 schools across four regions. Following the validation of the grades 1-6 curriculum and materials, RFS-NPR will help the MoE scale up the program to reach all primary schools throughout the country. The project initially focused on four results: improving the curriculum and materials for the Arabic language in grades 1-4, improving in-service and pre-service teacher professional development, reinforcing enrichment programs, and improving assessment practices for language and literacy skills in grades 1-4. In the third year, the project scope expanded to include curriculum revision for grades 5-6 and dropped enrichment programs. In the fourth year, RFS-NPR continues to support the Ministry of Education, building on USAID's previous efforts. RFS-NPR has made significant progress in technical activities, including improving reading and writing materials used in primary schools, enhancing reading and writing instruction, expanding reading enrichment programs, and improving learning and assessment systems. The project has also made notable management developments, including key meetings with USAID and partners, and has implemented various communications and outreach strategies. The project's cross-cutting themes include capacity building, sustainability, gender equity, inclusion, and stakeholder collaboration. RFS-NPR has made efforts to build the capacity of the MoE, ensure the sustainability of the program, promote gender equity, and include diverse stakeholders in the decision-making process. In terms of management developments, RFS-NPR has held key meetings with USAID and partners, and has implemented various activities and communications strategies. The project has also made progress in monitoring and evaluation, with notable results in the Early Grade Reading Assessment (EGRA) and other indicators. Overall, RFS-NPR has made significant progress in supporting the Moroccan Ministry of Education's early grade reading program, and continues to work towards its mission of improving reading and writing skills among primary school students. The project's progress in improving reading and writing materials used in primary schools is notable, with the development of new materials and the revision of existing ones. The project has also made significant progress in enhancing reading and writing instruction, with the training of teachers and the development of new instructional materials. RFS-NPR has also expanded reading enrichment programs, providing additional support to students who need it. The project has also improved learning and assessment systems, with the development of new assessments and the revision of existing ones.