Urge Legislators to Listen to Educators on Literacy
There is currently legislation before the Joint Committee on Education that would mandate the use of specific literacy curriculum and place in state law a flawed definition of “evidence-based literacy instruction” that would restrict educators from implementing effective practices. The MTA recently hosted a briefing for legislators to share our concerns about the proposed legislation and to highlight what educators think would be effective in expanding access to high-quality literacy instruction.
Next Steps on Reading and Literacy Instruction
Reading Legislation and NAEP Scores
How Has the Share of Fourth Grade Students Who Are Proficient Readers Changed in States That Have a Mandated Curriculum?
Exposing the Mississippi Myth
Reading Specialist Teacher Pipeline
Reading Teachers
District reported data on teachers assigned to reading courses by grade span.
Explore the data on Reading Teachers by district:
School Libraries
Schools with library programs and licensed librarians support improved literacy skills and supports students reading comprehension proficiency.
MTA School Library Task Force Resources
Investing in School Libraries and Librarians To Improve Literacy Outcomes – American Progress
Boosting Students’ Literacy Skills With Help From the School Librarian – Edutopia
Effective Policies and Practices for Reading + Literacy Instruction – 2023
Take a look at our set of recommendations developed in 2023 in collaboration with MTA members.