Virginia has made a bold commitment to literacy––and the data shows why that commitment must continue. Today, 43% of our third graders cannot read. Most of us learned to love reading because someone put books into our hands early––often before we remember it. There were adults and teachers that taught us how to read.
There are hundreds of thousands of children who don’t have any books in their homes. They need equitable access to books at a critical time in language and literacy development. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library plays a key role in helping children enter kindergarten with a strong foundation in literacy, a love of books and reading.
This is a moment that matters for our children, families, teachers and schools. Budget conferees are negotiating the final budget right now. They need to hear from you. A call or letter can truly make a difference.
ASK BUDGET CONFEREES TO FULLY FUND LITERACY
We must promote, grow and sustain the Imagination Library, the Virginia Language and Literacy Screener System (VALLSS) and the implementation of the Virginia Literacy Act year after year. These initiatives are working together to help every child, family, teacher and school improve third grade reading.
Thank you for helping us build the next generation of readers and learners. I am so grateful to be in this work alongside YOU.