The Right to Read
The Literacy Architects
We break down complex literacy routines into step-by-step plans and deliver PD to support you along the way.
Just in case you’re in a rush, we don’t want you to miss out on this limited-time offer: Use coupon code LLN50-OFF for 50% off your first month of the Literacy Leadership Network.
Plus: We have an exclusive offer for D.C. educators. Thanks to the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE), 4th-12th grade educators in Washington, D.C. can register for our self-paced course, Addressing Learning Gaps with Syllable Instruction, for free! Strengthen your understanding of how to use syllable knowledge to improve students' multisyllabic word reading skills by registering today.
------
In the "Right to Read" lawsuit that was settled in 2020, attorneys argued that all children have a constitutional right to literacy. While this was ultimately struck down by the courts, we know from research that 95% of students are cognitively capable of learning how to read with explicit instruction in foundational reading. What’s more, we know that literacy is essential for full participation in our society and we have clear evidence on how to best teach students to read. In light of all this, we need every school of education and every state, district, and school leader to be a champion for getting this crucial information into the hands of those who make the most difference for students – their teachers.
A look at the disparity
Typical reading instruction has failed many students, particularly students who are Black, Hispanic, or from low-income backgrounds. In 2022, 56% of Black 4th graders, 50% of Hispanic 4th graders, and 57% of American Indian/Alaska Native 4th graders were reading “below basic.” Additionally, 70% of 4th grade students identified as having a disability, and 52% of 4th graders eligible for free and reduced-priced meals also reading at “below basic” levels. Students from higher socioeconomic backgrounds have advantages that can make up for shortfalls in literacy instruction (such as private tutoring), but those students who rely on their public school to teach them to read and write aren't likely to have that option.
Long-term consequences of inequity
What happens long-term when students are failed by the literacy instruction they receive in school? Low literacy levels are linked with unemployment, poverty, poor physical and mental health outcomes, and incarceration. In the United States, 43% of adults with the lowest literacy levels are living in poverty. Even those students who graduate high school and go on to college are at a distinct disadvantage if they are insufficiently prepared. Research shows that college faculty expect students to arrive with well-developed literacy skills, and students without those skills may have to take additional developmental reading courses that do not count towards their degree but take up additional time and tuition. As the authors of one study write, "perceptions of poor K-12 literacy preparation may not be considered a gap to be filled, reinforcing the situation as a barrier to equity, access, and inclusion in postsecondary education."
We can change this with the right instruction
The good news is that evidence-based literacy practices that include explicit, systematic, phonics instruction can benefit all children. When schools begin to provide instruction in the foundational skills that students need, it's possible to improve reading. And there are other ways to promote equity as well. Rather than assigning students to reading levels (which limit students' exposure to rich and challenging texts), we can support students with grade-level texts, targeted skills-based small group work, and opportunities to build background knowledge and a robust vocabulary.
It’s time to ensure that all students have access to equitable literacy instruction. Are you seeing best practices gain traction in your community? Let us know—we'd love to hear from you!
What We're Working On
Are you leading science of reading literacy changes in your district or school? It's time for you to be in the community with other administrators who are doing the same.
Recommended by LinkedIn
The doors to the TLA Literacy Leadership Network are open! This collaborative network provides a range of benefits to help literacy directors and administrators stay informed, connected, and equipped with the latest research and expertise.
Here's what a $49/month membership includes:
March’s LLN focus is Crafting Effective Literacy Blocks. Design and optimize your literacy block to ensure maximum effectiveness in teaching and learning. When you join, you’ll get access to a recording of this month’s webinar, plus invites to the next office hours, and more!
Use coupon code LLN50-OFF for 50% off your first month when you register by March 31!
Attention D.C. Educators!
Time is running out on this exclusive offer for D.C. educators! Thanks to the Office of the State Superintendent of Education, DC educators in grades 4–12 can register for Addressing Learning Gaps with Syllable Instruction for free! Strengthen your understanding of how to use syllable knowledge to improve students' multisyllabic word reading skills by registering today.
Here’s what one participant had to say:
“The asynchronous lessons were organized and allowed me to work on them as I had time. The content was beneficial and helped me understand how I can help struggling readers."
In Case You Missed It
Here's our most popular post from last week.
Want to see more? Make sure you're following us on your favorite social media platform!