can become strong readers and writers, but know that not all will unless they have access to a strong early literacy program.

Children are struggling to learn to read, write, and spell because many schools and the most popular programs assume kids will naturally learn to read if they are surrounded by texts. This is not true. Reading and writing, unlike speech, are not natural processes. Research shows that most people require systematic and explicit literacy instruction in order to become proficient readers and writers. As a result of this misalignment, children across socioeconomic brackets are struggling to learn to read. Due to the impact of systematic racism and inequality on schools and children, and reduced access to resources like private tutoring, students from historically marginalized communities are most at risk for reading failure. 

We know that teachers and leaders want the best for their students, but believe that changing literacy outcomes for students cannot happen without deep investment in adults’ knowledge. Changing teacher practice is not as simple as buying a new curriculum. Teachers and leaders need to deeply understand the what, why, and how of any program they are using. This requires training and ongoing support as adults transform their practice for children.