As Literacy Lags, Hochul Proposes Changing How Schools Teach Reading
New York Governor Kathy Hochul is proposing a major shift in education policy to change how reading is taught in schools across the state. The proposal follows evidence that the current literacy approach is failing, as fewer than half of the state’s third graders are proficient in reading. Hochul wants school districts to certify by 2025 that their curriculums have embraced “scientifically proven” literacy approaches. New York ranks 32nd in the nation for reading proficiency, with many teachers trained in a method known as “balanced literacy,” which experts criticize for not teaching enough foundational skills like phonics. The proposal requires the support of the State Legislature, which is controlled by Democrats.
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