Sacramento Literacy Foundation addresses 62 percent of third graders reading below grade level

In a recent meeting of the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors, the pressing issue of literacy among children was brought to the forefront by representatives from the Sacramento Literacy Foundation. April Javist and her team, including award-winning advocate Messiah Malaris, presented alarming statistics indicating that 62% of third graders in Sacramento are not reading at grade level. This deficiency poses significant challenges for these children as they transition into adulthood, affecting their ability to secure jobs, participate in civic duties, and navigate life effectively.

The Sacramento Literacy Foundation aims to address this crisis by providing culturally relevant books to under-resourced children and advocating for effective reading instruction methods. Malaris emphasized the importance of representation in literature, noting that when children see themselves in the stories they read, they become more engaged and confident learners. The foundation has successfully distributed over 100,000 books to children in need over the past four years, with plans to expand their reach further.

During the meeting, the board members expressed their support for the foundation's initiatives and discussed the need for collaboration with other organizations, such as First 5 and SETA, to enhance literacy efforts. Supervisor Kennedy highlighted the critical role of early literacy in a child's development, while Supervisor Rodriguez shared personal experiences that underscored the long-term benefits of reading.

The discussion also touched on the broader implications of literacy on societal issues, including poverty and crime. Javist pointed out that a lack of reading skills is often linked to higher rates of incarceration, emphasizing the need for immediate action to improve literacy rates. The foundation is advocating for policy changes and increased funding for literacy programs, stressing that investing in education is essential for breaking the cycle of poverty and improving community well-being.

As the meeting concluded, the board members acknowledged the urgency of the literacy crisis and the importance of continued support for initiatives that promote reading among children. The Sacramento Literacy Foundation's efforts represent a crucial step toward ensuring that all children have the opportunity to succeed through literacy, and the board's commitment to addressing this issue will be vital in the coming years.