The Foundations of Early Literacy as a Tool for Equity

In 2019, before the pandemic, only half of 3rd through 5th graders were reading on grade level according to the ELA MCAS, highlighting the persistent opportunity gaps where our system failed to reach early learners. It is clearer now, more than ever, that high quality, evidence-based early literacy instruction is one of our best tools to ensure a more equitable future for all students.