Literacy is key to success in school and life. We know that if reading is encouraged early on, it is likely to become a lifelong habit. We also know that students who read and write well have better success in upper grades and are less likely to drop out.

Education Week reports that legislation was recently introduced in both the Senate and the House to authorize $2.35 billion to improve reading and writing in kindergarten through twelfth grade. This legislation would replace Early Reading First, Reading First, and Striving Readers. A federal study of Reading First found that while an increased number of students recognized letters and words, comprehension levels were unchanged. A similar evaluation of Striving Readers found significant improvement at only three of eight sites two years after program implementation.

While this comprehensive literacy bill is being introduced separately, if passed it will likely become part of the ESEA (Elementary and Secondary Education Act) reauthorization. The new bill proposes at least 10% of the funds for early childhood, 40% for K-5, and 40% for grades 6-12. If the bill makes it through the House and Senate intact, it will be an unprecedented federal commitment for adolescent literacy.

Bravo.