The Whitsdom Press

Tag: literacy

  • Kids Struggling to Read, Teachers Walking Away

    Teachers Leaving the Classroom

    More and more teachers are leaving their jobs. Some say they are burned out. Others say kids don’t want to read or learn. One teacher shared online that her students refused to read any books—even when the school gave them audio versions. She said many kids are graduating high school even though they read years below their grade level.

    The Reading Problem

    In some major metropolitan areas and cities, the reading crisis is especially visible. Reports show many students are behind by several grade levels. In Baltimore, some high schools had almost no students reading at grade level. In Houston, library programs were cut in some schools, making it harder for kids to access books. In Memphis and Atlanta, many teens are still struggling to read while being promoted to the next grade.

    Technology Taking Over

    Some teachers say technology is part of the problem. Kids now use iPads, phones, and even AI to get answers fast. This means they don’t practice reading or writing like before. A former teacher explained that students have short attention spans and don’t know how to focus on written work because of too much screen time.

    Reading Skills Are Falling Behind

    • In the U.S. in 2024, only 31% of fourth graders and 30% of eighth graders met “proficient” reading standards on a national test (NAEP)
    • No state or city saw reading score improvements from 2022 to 2024
    • Nationwide, just 35% of 12th graders were considered proficient readers—lowest since NAEP began testing in 1992.

    Why Teachers Quit

    Across the country, there are more than 45,000 unfilled teacher jobs. Combined with teachers working without full certification, this adds up to at least 1 in 8 school teaching positions facing gaps. There are many reasons teachers are leaving:

    • Burnout – Teachers are tired and stressed out. Almost half say they feel burned out all the time.
    • No Support – Teachers often feel they are not trusted to do their jobs. Schools tell them exactly what to teach and how to teach it.
    • Behavior Problems – Phones, disrespect, and lack of parent support make classrooms harder to manage.

    The Impact on Kids

    When students don’t learn to read well, it affects everything. Reading is the base of all learning. Without it, kids struggle in every subject. Some schools are even cutting libraries, which makes the reading problem worse, especially in communities that already don’t have enough resources.

    What Needs to Change

    • Focus on Reading – Bring back more books, handwriting, and libraries.
    • Support Teachers – Give teachers more respect, trust, and better working conditions.
    • Fix Burnout – Lower class sizes, pay teachers fairly, and give them mental health support.

    Closing Thoughts

    The problem isn’t just one teacher or one school—it’s across the country. Kids are falling behind in reading, and teachers are leaving in big numbers. If schools don’t make changes soon, both students and teachers will keep paying the price.

  • Unlocking the Power of Reading: How Fleming Middle School is Tackling Literacy Challenges Head-On!

    As September unfolds, it brings with it National Literacy Month. It is a time to celebrate the joys of reading. It is also a time to discuss the vital role literacy plays in our lives. While many of us focus on personal and family reading habits, it’s equally important to consider literacy challenges. These challenges exist at local, state, and national levels. This September, let’s take a closer look at how we can advocate for literacy improvements. Let’s also celebrate reading. We will place a special focus on Fleming Middle School in Houston ISD.

    Celebrating Reading and Its Impact

    Before we dive into the challenges, let’s remember the joy of reading. Simple practices are essential. This includes being a reading role model, organizing book clubs, creating a home library, and sharing reading experiences. These activities not only foster a love for reading but also play a crucial role in developing literacy skills.

    1. Be a Reading Role Model: One simple act of promoting literacy is being a reading role model. Show your enthusiasm for books and make reading a part of your daily routine. Discuss the books you’re reading with your family and share your excitement. Your actions can influence children and adults alike, creating a culture of reading that extends beyond the home.
    2. Organize Book Clubs or Book Nights: Book clubs and book nights are not only fun. They are also powerful tools for fostering a love of reading. These gatherings can be tailored to different age groups, making literature a shared experience. For younger children, family book nights where everyone reads a chosen book aloud can be particularly engaging. For teens and adults, forming book clubs can offer an opportunity for deeper discussions and diverse perspectives.
    3. Create a Home Library: Create a special space in your home for books. A cozy corner or a well-organized bookshelf can spark a love for reading. Make this space inviting and stocked with a variety of books to cater to different interests and reading levels. A well-curated home library can serve as a constant reminder of the joy and value of reading.
    4. Read to Your Kids (or With Them): Reading with your children enhances their literacy skills. It also strengthens your bond. Set up a daily reading routine and choose books that interest your child. Engage in conversations about the stories to deepen their comprehension and make reading an interactive experience.
    5. Replace Screen Time with Book Time: In a digital world, balancing screen time with reading can be challenging. Start by gradually replacing 15-30 minutes of screen time with book time. This includes reading a physical book or an eBook on a tablet. Check your local libraries or school librarians for resources to help. Also check out my article about top educational apps for your kids!
    6. Share Reading Experiences: After reading, discuss the book with your children. Ask them about their favorite parts, characters, and what they learned. This encourages critical thinking and helps children connect more deeply with the material.

    As we celebrate National Literacy Month, it’s also essential to think back on the obstacles schools face in promoting literacy. We should also consider how they are working to overcome those challenges.

    Addressing Literacy Challenges Locally and Beyond

    While celebrating literacy at a personal level is crucial, it’s also important to tackle literacy concerns on a broader scale. Local schools, state education systems, and national policies play significant roles in shaping literacy education. One example is Fleming Middle School in Houston ISD, which has been making strides in improving literacy education.

    Fleming Middle School: A Case Study in Literacy

    Fleming Middle School in Houston ISD is a prime example of a school grappling with literacy challenges. It is also striving to implement effective solutions. As highlighted in the video below, Fleming Middle School has faced several hurdles in improving literacy outcomes for its students. These challenges include:

    • Reading Skill Gaps: Many students at Fleming Middle School have struggled with reading skills. This issue is not uncommon in schools serving diverse and low-socioeconomic communities.
    • Resource Limitations: Limited access to up-to-date reading materials and educational resources can hinder effective literacy instruction.
    • Teacher Training Needs: Ongoing professional development is crucial for teachers. This helps them stay abreast of the latest literacy teaching strategies and methodologies.
    Source: KPRC 2 News – Houston

    Despite these challenges, Fleming Middle School is making significant efforts to enhance literacy education:

    • Innovative Teaching Practices: Teachers at Fleming Middle School are implementing new and creative teaching techniques designed to engage students. They make reading more accessible and enjoyable.
    • Targeted Interventions: The school has introduced focused reading programs to focus on the specific needs of students struggling with literacy. These interventions aim to focus tailored support to help students improve their reading skills.
    • Community Engagement: Recognizing the importance of a collaborative approach, Fleming Middle School actively involves parents. The school also engages the community in its literacy initiatives. By fostering a supportive environment, the school helps bridge the gap between home and school learning.

    Celebrate and Advocate

    As we celebrate National Literacy Month, let’s not only focus on personal reading habits. We should also advocate for improvements in literacy education. We can solve literacy challenges at various levels. We achieve this by supporting initiatives in our local communities and schools. These include programs like those at Fleming Middle School in Houston, TX. This way, we can contribute to a future where everyone has the opportunity to become a lifelong reader. Happy National Literacy Month!

  • Celebrate National Reading Month with Your Child!

     

    67% of 4th graders read below grade level, setting them up for difficulty in school and beyond. — National Assessment of Educational Progress

    March is here, and with it comes National Reading Month! National Reading Month is more than just a calendar marker. It’s the perfect time to snuggle up with your little one and embark on fantastical journeys, all from the comfort of your living room. But why is reading so important, especially for young children? And why is that daily 30 minutes a magic number?

    Building Little Bookworms: The Power of Daily Reading

    Reading isn’t just about learning letters and sounding out words. It’s about building a foundation for a lifetime of learning and exploration. Here’s how those precious 30 minutes a day can make a world of difference:

    • Brainpower Boost: Reading strengthens neural connections, improving memory, focus, and critical thinking skills. Imagine your child as a tiny detective, piecing together clues from the story!
    • Vocabulary Explosion: Each book introduces a treasure trove of new words. Soon, your child will be using those words in everyday conversations, sounding like a mini-professor (without the stuffiness!).
    • Empathy Avenue: Stories allow children to step into the shoes of others, fostering compassion and understanding. They’ll learn to navigate complex emotions and build strong social skills.
    • Knowledge Highway: From faraway lands to the wonders of science, books open doors to limitless knowledge. Curiosity becomes their compass, guiding them on a lifelong adventure of learning.
    • Bonding Time: Reading together creates a warm, safe space for connection. The snuggles, the silly voices, the shared laughter – these precious moments build lasting memories that strengthen your relationship with your child.

    30 Minutes: A Daily Dose of Magic

    While any amount of reading is beneficial, research suggests that 30 minutes a day provides the most significant impact. It allows for deeper engagement with the story, fostering a love for reading that will last well into adulthood.

    • Sustained Attention: This timeframe allows children to fully immerse themselves in the story. Younger children, especially, have shorter attention spans. 30 minutes provides enough time for them to engage with the characters, plot, and language without feeling overwhelmed.
    • Habit Formation: Daily reading fosters a consistent routine, making it more likely for reading to become a natural habit. The 30-minute duration strikes a balance, offering enough time for meaningful engagement while remaining achievable within a busy schedule.
    • Deeper Comprehension: Reading for longer stretches allows for deeper comprehension and analysis of the text. Children can revisit previous chapters, connect ideas, and grasp complex concepts more effectively.
    • Exposure and Growth: 30 minutes provides sufficient exposure to new vocabulary, sentence structures, and diverse writing styles. This consistent exposure over time contributes significantly to language development and overall literacy growth.

    However, it’s important to remember:

    • Individual Needs: Every child learns at their own pace. Adjust the reading time to suit your child’s attention span and interest. Shorter, more frequent reading sessions can be just as beneficial, especially for younger children.
    • Quality over Quantity: Focus on creating a positive and engaging reading experience. 15 minutes of focused, interactive reading is more beneficial than 30 minutes of struggling or frustration.

    Ultimately, the goal is to foster a love for reading and create a lifelong learner. Adapt the 30-minute recommendation to fit your child’s individual needs and preferences, and most importantly, make reading a joyful journey for both of you.

    Making Reading Fun: Tips for Every Age

    Here are some tips to make those daily reading sessions engaging and enjoyable, no matter your child’s age:

    • For Babies and Toddlers: Choose colorful, interactive books with simple rhymes and textures. Sing along to the words, make funny noises, and let your child explore the book at their own pace.
    • For Preschoolers: Consider stories with lively illustrations and captivating plots. Let them choose the books sometimes, and encourage them to “read” along with you, pointing to pictures and making sounds.
    • For Early Readers: Celebrate their newfound independence by letting them read to you! Take turns reading pages or chapters, offering support and encouragement.
    • For Older Children: Explore a variety of genres – fantasy, adventure, graphic novels – to find what sparks their interest. Discuss the characters, plot twists, and lessons learned.

    Remember: Reading should be a joyful experience. Make it a fun family activity! Visit your local library, have a themed story time with costumes and snacks, or build a cozy reading fort.

    Ready to take the plunge? Here are some additional resources to get you started:

    It’s a call to action, an invitation to unlock the magic of books for children of all ages. So, grab a comfy blanket, pick a captivating story, and get ready to embark on a journey together. You might just be surprised by the wonder you discover! Let’s make this National Reading Month a time to cultivate lifelong readers, one story at a time!