Which of the following is the first step in developing a school-wide reading program?

Conducting a needs assessment is indeed the first step in developing a school-wide reading program. This process involves gathering data to understand the current reading abilities of students, identifying gaps in their skills, and determining the specific needs of the school community. By assessing the strengths and weaknesses in reading performance, educators can make informed decisions about what the reading program should address.

Understanding the needs of the students allows for the development of targeted goals and objectives that align with those needs. Additionally, it helps in identifying resources that are required and can guide the assignment of responsibilities among staff. Therefore, initiating the development process with a thorough needs assessment ensures that the subsequent steps are relevant and effectively tailored to support student reading achievement.