Tennessee highlights progress during Literacy Month

Throughout March, Tennessee is celebrating Literacy Month, as proclaimed by Governor Bill Lee. The Tennessee Department of Education is highlighting the state's investments in reading that aim to improve early literacy skills and help students reach their potential.

"Tennessee students are leading the nation in reading proficiency gains thanks to our state’s strong literacy strategy," said Gov. Lee. "Every student deserves the opportunity to thrive, and in the month of March, we’re celebrating our continued commitment to literacy and ensuring that every child can reach their full potential."

The celebration began with Read Across America Day on March 2, marking the start of Read Across America Week. The department and Riley the Reading Raccoon will visit schools across Tennessee to promote literacy efforts. Tennesseans are encouraged to participate on social media using hashtags like #TNReadingForALL and #ReadLikeRiley.

Tennessee's literacy rates have shown significant improvement due to strategic investments by Gov. Lee and the Tennessee General Assembly, including the 2021 Tennessee Literacy Success Act. The 2023-24 ELA TCAP results indicated that 39% of students meet grade-level expectations, with proficiency gains across most grades.

"Our district and school leaders, teachers, families, elected leaders, and communities are putting in a tremendous amount of effort to support our young readers," said Lizzette Reynolds, Commissioner of Education. "I’m grateful for the hard work being done across the state."

The department plans to offer its fifth summer of literacy training for educators, including new Pre-K Literacy Training. Additionally, support for early literacy instruction continues through initiatives like the Early Literacy Network 2.0.

More information about Tennessee's literacy resources can be found on their website.

For media inquiries related to the Tennessee Department of Education, contact EDU.MediaInquiries@tn.gov.

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