About
The Problem
Advocacy
Research + Practice
Activities for Families
Kids Need To Read
The Virginia Snapshot
41% of children are NOT READY
for kindergarten in literacy, math, social skills and self-regulation.
Early Literacy
Matters
1 in 6 children
fall below the literacy benchmark.
Over half of students in K-2 are at
high to moderate risk
for reading difficulties.
Third grade is a critical benchmark.
Children through third grade are learning to read, then they are reading to learn.
The first eight years matter
and build a foundation for learning.
More Black, Hispanic + English Language Learners are at
higher risk of reading difficulties.
The continuity of quality must build from year to year,
academically and socially, for ALL children.
Third graders not reading on grade level are
4 times more likely to DROP OUT OF SCHOOL.