Emily Helmsstrom details Literacy Academy Collective's mission to combat dyslexia in NYC

The Manhattan Schools & Education Committee meeting held on March 24, 2025, featured a significant presentation by Emily Helmsstrom, co-founder and director of external affairs and strategy for the Literacy Academy Collective. The organization focuses on advancing evidence-based literacy instruction, particularly for students with dyslexia and other language-based learning disabilities.

Helmsstrom highlighted the urgent need for reform in literacy education, citing alarming statistics from recent NAEP scores, which revealed that only 31% of New York State students are reading at or above proficiency. The situation is even more dire for marginalized groups, with only 14% of Black students meeting proficiency standards. Helmsstrom emphasized that 95% of students can learn to read if taught using effective, evidence-based practices, yet many are failing due to systemic barriers.

The Literacy Academy Collective has established the South Bronx Literacy Academy, the first public school in New York City specifically designed for students with dyslexia. A second school, the Central Brooklyn Literacy Academy, is set to open in September 2025. These schools aim to provide a structured and supportive environment for students who are significantly behind in reading skills.

Helmsstrom discussed the innovative teaching methods employed at these academies, which include a focus on phonics, language comprehension, and culturally responsive practices. The schools have reported impressive progress, with students showing growth at rates significantly higher than expected benchmarks.

The meeting underscored the importance of addressing literacy as a civil right and the need for systemic changes to ensure equitable access to education for all students. The Literacy Academy Collective aims to expand its network of schools to further impact literacy education across New York City, particularly in under-resourced districts.