With declining literacy rates, our work has never been more urgent. See how the Delaware Literacy Alliance is elevating work done in our State and beyond. Learn how you can get involved through advocacy, volunteering, or attending our upcoming events.
As we begin a new year, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment for literacy in Delaware and across the nation. With the uncertainty and declining literacy rates, our work has never been more urgent. We must come together — partners, advocates, and educators — to elevate the critical efforts happening behind the scenes and ensure that literacy remains a top priority.
Education Landscape: Critical Challenges
Reading Crisis: U.S. Student Scores Hit Historic Low U.S. student reading proficiency has hit its lowest level since 1992, with only 67% of eighth-graders and 60% of fourth-graders meeting basic standards. The decline began before COVID-19 and persists despite reforms. While Louisiana and Mississippi show progress, experts warn of long-term effects on graduation rates and job prospects.. Read the Fortune Article
Legal Battle Over Reading Methods
Massachusetts families have filed a lawsuit challenging the three-cueing reading instruction approach, arguing it prioritizes guessing over phonics and has caused educational harm. This case could reshape reading instruction policies nationwide.
Efforts to boost children's literacy are growing, with WNBA star Caitlin Clark’s foundation partnering with Scholastic to donate 22,000 books to under-resourced schools. The books will go to children’s hospitals and nonprofits, with a focus on Clark’s home state of Iowa.
Despite challenges, Literacy Delaware is making an impact: 100% of learners achieved a personal goal, 80% improved reading or English skills, and 55 new tutors were trained. We remain committed to expanding our efforts for a more literate Delaware. Learn More.
Early Literacy Initiatives
The Delaware Department of Education has introduced Early Literacy Micro-credentials as part of the Delaware Literacy Plan, aligning with the science of reading to enhance early literacy education. Now, more than ever, we must ensure educators have the resources to support young learners effectively. Learn More.
Upcoming Literacy Events
Explore our events calendar at DelawareLiteracyAlliance.org. Submityour own literacy event and join the spotlight of Delaware's vibrant literacy community.
Scrabble Along the Brandywine Fundraiser
Friday, March 28
Support a great cause while testing your word skills at this exciting team-based SCRABBLE™ fundraiser!
Former First Lady Tracey Quillen Carney Champions Literacy
As Delaware’s First Lady, Tracey Quillen Carney made literacy a top priority, using books and libraries to spark a love of reading across the state. Now, in partnership with Delaware Libraries and Literacy Alliance co-chair Annie Norman, she continues to inspire families to explore new stories, build connections, and embrace the joy of reading.
AmeriCorps and Literacy Delaware Celebrate MLK Day
Also on January 17, 2025, Literacy Delaware highlighted their collaboration with AmeriCorps and United Way to honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day through service initiatives.
Now is the time to strengthen our collective voice and ensure literacy remains a priority. We are actively collaborating with partners across Delaware to elevate the work being done, share resources, and drive meaningful change. We invite you to join us in this effort — whether through advocacy, volunteering, or supporting our initiatives.
Thank you for standing with us in this vital mission. Together, we can make a lasting impact.
