ATTENTION NEEDS TO FOCUS ON TEACHING YOUNG STUDENTS TO READ, THE FOUNDATION OF LEARNING

Improving reading skills in early grades is an issue in the Missouri General Assembly. The push is a response to persistent concerns that too many Missouri students are graduating without knowing how to read.

There is simply no substitution for good reading skills. Reading is the basis for everything else a child will learn. Any help the state can give to put additional emphasis on reading skills and incentives would be helpful -- granted, of course, it comes without bureaucratic headaches.

Specifically the Legislature is looking at appropriating additional dollars for Missouri's Reading Recovery program, which is designed to help young readers become more successful. It also teaches teachers how improving literacy success among students. Lawmakers will also consider an additional $1 million for Read to Be Ready, which gives school districts money for reading assessment and instruction within flexible guidelines.

Raising reading levels should be a top priority in Jefferson City and in every school district across the state. Only then will this issue get the attention it deserves.