top of page
Cork Board_edited.jpg
Why Advocacy?

Advocating for evidence-based reading instruction is crucial because it ensures that children receive high-quality reading instruction that is proven to be effective. Evidence-based reading instruction is based on research and uses methods that have been shown to work, such as phonics and vocabulary instruction, comprehension strategies, and fluency practice.

When teachers have access to evidence-based instruction and resources, they are better equipped to teach reading to all students, including those with reading difficulties or disabilities.

 

Examples of how you can advocate for change.
Here are some ways to reach you can advocate for evidence-based reading instruction:
 

  1. Educate yourself: The first step to advocating for change is to educate yourself on the issue. Learn about the current reading instruction policies in your state, including the curriculum, assessment methods, and teacher training. This will help you better understand the strengths and weaknesses of the current system and identify areas for improvement.
     

  2. Connect with other parents: There is strength in numbers, so connecting with other parents who are also concerned about reading instruction in your state can be a powerful way to advocate for change. Join local parent-teacher associations, attend school board meetings, and participate in advocacy groups and social media groups.
     

  3. Write letters and make phone calls: Writing letters and making phone calls to policymakers can be an effective way to advocate for change. You can use the template we created. Find it down below!
     

  4. Meet with policymakers: Contact your local and state policymakers, including school board members, state legislators, and the governor's office. Request a meeting to discuss your concerns and share information about the importance of evidence-based reading instruction. Be sure to emphasize the impact of reading difficulties on students' long-term success and the importance of early intervention.
     

  5. Share your story: Personal stories can be a powerful way to advocate for evidence-based reading instruction. Share your own experiences with reading instruction, or talk to parents and teachers in your community and share their stories with your representative.
     

  6. Attend rallies and events: Attending rallies and events can help raise awareness about the importance of evidence-based reading instruction and the need for change in your state. Participating in these events can also help connect you with like-minded individuals and organizations that share your concerns. 
     

  7. Join a literacy advocacy group: There are many organizations dedicated to promoting literacy and evidence-based reading instruction. Joining one of these groups can provide you with resources, support, and opportunities to advocate for evidence-based instruction on a larger scale. You can find a list of our favorite advocacy groups on our advocacy toolkit.

Advocacy Tools for Organizations

 

Organizations can play a vital role in advocating for change in literacy instruction, as they have the resources, expertise, and networks to influence policy makers and raise awareness about the importance of evidence-based reading instruction.


They can help by partnering with schools, community groups, and policymakers to promote best practices in literacy instruction, provide professional development opportunities for teachers, and advocate for policy changes that support evidence-based reading instruction.

 

Here are some examples of how organizations can help advocate for change in literacy instruction:

​

  1. Provide training and resources: Organizations can offer professional development opportunities for teachers and provide them with evidence-based instructional resources, such as lesson plans and reading materials. This can help ensure that teachers have the tools they need to provide high-quality reading instruction.
     

  2. Conduct research: Organizations can conduct research on literacy instruction to identify best practices and inform policy makers. This research can also be used to raise awareness about the importance of evidence-based reading instruction.
     

  3. Advocate for policy change: Organizations can advocate for policy changes that support evidence-based reading instruction. This might include lobbying for increased funding for literacy programs or pushing for legislation that requires schools to use evidence-based instructional methods.
     

  4. Partner with schools and community groups: Organizations can partner with schools and community groups to promote literacy and provide support to students who are struggling with reading. This might include providing tutoring, mentoring, or other types of support to students and families. By working together, organizations can have a greater impact on literacy instruction and help ensure that all children have access to high-quality reading instruction.

Advocacy Letter Template

Dear [Recipient],

I am writing to you today to express my deep concern about the state of literacy instruction in our schools. As a member of this community, I am deeply committed to ensuring that every child has access to the best education possible, and I believe that evidence-based literacy instruction is a crucial component of that.
 

According to recent studies, only 37% of fourth-grade students in the United States are proficient in reading, and the numbers are even lower for students from low-income families and minority groups. These statistics are alarming, as literacy is an essential skill that forms the foundation for academic success and lifelong learning.
 

Evidence-based literacy instruction is the most effective way to teach children how to read and write. It focuses on the development of phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension skills, which are all essential for children to become successful readers and writers. By utilizing evidence-based literacy instruction in our schools, we can help our students achieve the skills they need to succeed academically and beyond.
 

Unfortunately, many schools are still relying on outdated or ineffective methods of literacy instruction. As a result, too many students are struggling with reading and writing, which can have lifelong consequences for their academic and professional success.
 

I urge you to take action to ensure that evidence-based literacy instruction is implemented in our schools. This may require investing in professional development for teachers, updating curricula and materials, and providing support and resources to help teachers and students succeed. I believe that these efforts will pay off in the long run by improving academic outcomes and giving our students the tools they need to succeed.
 

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
I look forward to hearing about the steps you will take to implement evidence-based literacy instruction in our schools.

​

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

bottom of page