EVERY teacher, administrator and parent reads this article. For 30 years educators taught kids how to read using “whole language” instead of phonics. Lucy Calkins and friends made over $2 billion dollars selling this garbage to educators. Now 60% of students are functionally illiterate.

Title: The Urgent Need for Evidence-Based Reading Instruction in Education

In the landscape of education, few issues are as critical as how we teach children to read. For decades, a widely adopted approach called “whole language” dominated classrooms, championed by influential educators such as Lucy Calkins. However, this methodology has come under scrutiny for its questionable effectiveness, with recent data revealing alarming consequences.

Despite its popularity among educators and the significant financial investments—surpassing $2 billion—made by proponents promoting whole language principles, the results have been sobering. Today, approximately 60% of students are considered functionally illiterate, highlighting a profound failure in our foundational literacy education.

It’s important for parents and guardians to understand where accountability lies. While teachers play a pivotal role, much of the responsibility rests with educational administrators who, perhaps influenced by misinformation or financial interests, endorsed and enforced ineffective teaching methods. Their decisions have had lasting impacts on countless young learners.

A pivotal shift is underway. California, among other states, is beginning to adopt evidence-based phonics instruction, aligning with scientific research that supports systematic decoding strategies for reading success. This transition promises a brighter future for students and restores hope for effective literacy education.

For those interested in exploring this history and understanding the broader implications, I recommend reviewing the in-depth report: “Sold a Story,” which uncovers the roots of the current literacy crisis and the industry’s influence on educational policies.

Let’s advocate for educational practices grounded in research and best practices, ensuring our children receive the quality education they deserve.

Read more about California’s move toward phonics here: [Link to CalMatters article]

Learn about the background of this issue here: [Link to “Sold a Story” investigative report]