“Reading is fundamental to enriching the lives of Oklahomans,” said Timmons. “That is why it is important to develop stronger education literacy programs so students can start early and have the best outcomes as they move through school and into the workforce.”
The study showed that early benchmarks for literacy development start in kindergarten, first, second, and third grade. However, screening data shows that roughly one in three Oklahoma students K-3 start below the benchmark in foundational reading skills.
Foundational reading skills can vary throughout different districts, but reading difficulties can be identified early with screening, intervention, and support.
The study also found that the consequences for not reading proficiently by the third grade can expand past academic achievement and into behavioral, economic, and societal struggles.
Legislative solutions discussed were updates to the Strong Readers Act, first introduced in 1997. It also highlighted the need for sustained and foundational funding for screening and early intervention services.
The study featured presenters from the Oklahoma State Department of Education, as well as former Superintendent of WK Jackson Leadership Academy Dr. Gloria Anderson to explain the vital need for support for early-level reading programs and what happens when support for these programs is lacking.
“When we ensure that every Oklahoma child who enters fourth grade is ready to learn from what they read, we ensure a better future for them and for Oklahoma as a whole,” Timmons said.
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