The “Science of Reading” Movement: State Legislative Action and Impact

The “science of reading” movement is making waves in state legislatures across the country. In recent years, more states have been passing laws or implementing policies that require schools to use evidence-based methods for teaching young students how to read. These mandates cover various aspects of instruction, including teacher training, curriculum, and identifying students in need of extra support.

The momentum for this legislative movement picked up after Mississippi enacted a series of laws in 2013 that revamped the state’s approach to reading instruction and teacher preparation. Subsequently, Mississippi saw an improvement in its students’ reading scores on the National Assessment of Educational Progress in 2019. Many other states have since adopted key elements of Mississippi’s legislation, aiming to replicate the success of the “Mississippi model.”

As of April 29, 2024, a total of 38 states and the District of Columbia have passed laws or implemented new policies related to evidence-based reading instruction since 2013, according to an Education Week analysis. State officials are hopeful that these mandates will lead to improved classroom practices and ultimately help more students become proficient readers. However, reading researchers and practitioners caution that the implementation process is complex, and it remains uncertain whether these legislative actions will have a significant impact on student achievement.

The “science of reading” framework emphasizes structured progression in teaching foundational language skills, such as letter-sound relationships and vocabulary development. This approach contrasts with the more common balanced literacy method, which relies on teacher discretion and may not provide explicit, systematic phonics instruction. While the goal is to help students become proficient readers by weaving together various skills, the effectiveness of these legislative initiatives is still under scrutiny.

Despite the evidence-based practices promoted by states, the success of such large-scale initiatives hinges on careful implementation. Experts suggest that it is crucial to monitor the impact of these legislative actions on student outcomes. The push for evidence-based reading instruction reflects a broader effort to improve literacy rates among young learners and equip them with essential skills for academic success.