A literacy framework is needed in all school systems around the country. One might wonder why that is the case. As an educator that focused on literacy for almost forty years, I have seen programs come and go, teachers struggle to accomplish what seemed impossible, and frustration surface when teachers felt colleges had not adequately prepared them for teaching these skills. We must start somewhere and the time is NOW to provide sustainable opportunities for premier instruction that culminates in literate children who will have the knowledge skills for changing the world and who will be college and career ready.

What really is literacy? Reading, writing , speaking, and listening effectively are paramount to all education. Today, reading and writing are connected closely to printed material and digital media. When individuals lack literacy skills, they are at a tremendous disadvantage. In fact, there are correlations of literacy to economic opportunities, even good nutrition and health.

None of this happens by accident. We must plan if improvement is going to be be made in this area in all schools in all states in our country. We cannot assume that literacy skills are being taught or even if students are writing regularly. During my years as an educator, I have seen writing take a back burner during literacy blocks with more attention being given to reading instruction. Both are important.

Sustaining literacy development, while integrating literacy and learning across the curriculum, is possible. Students and teachers must be motivated and engaged in teaching and learning if they are to achieve the desired results. Ongoing instruction and modeling is needed K-12 with colleges taking the reins to make sure educators, all educators, are ready for the challenge.

Part 2 will present a plan for how this can happen and happen immediately.