Summer Literacy Efforts Expand Amid Falling Scores

Educators and community organizations across the U.S. are expanding summer literacy initiatives to address the 'summer slide,' as national data reveals declining reading scores among elementary and middle school students. Programs such as Sacramento's Freedom School and district-led book giveaways in states like North Carolina offer free books and engaging activities to keep children reading outside of school. Early grade teacher training and public library programs are being implemented to support both students and educators, making reading an explicit part of summer learning. Parental involvement is increasingly emphasized as a key factor in sustaining students' reading habits. Experts note that summer reading not only bolsters vocabulary and comprehension but also fosters empathy, focus, and stress reduction. These efforts are particularly critical given ongoing threats to federal education funding and the need for community-driven solutions to support student success.