As discussed in my last blog (https://germantowngc.org/myth-6-we-can-rely-on-mcps-to-fix-the-illiteracy-program/), illiteracy is a culture which we have come to accept as normative here in Montgomery County as well as in other jurisdictions across the country. When it has become our culture, changing that culture can feel overwhelming if not impossible. Is it possible to bring our literacy rate back up into the 80th percentile as in years gone by? Should we even attempt such a lofty goal at the risk of creating a recipe for disappointment?

Fortunately, we have examples of jurisdictions that have moved the needle – tectonically! One year ago, I blogged about the “Mississippi Miracle,” the story of a state which was last place in the country in terms of literacy, and in the span of 10 years (2013 – 2023) moved up to sixth place overall (https://germantowngc.org/the-mississippi-miracle/). Yes, it can happen!

Since then I discovered another such needle move.

reading proficiency among 4th and 8th grade students in the U.S. Louisiana’s students earned the state’s highest national rankings across both grade levels and subjects.

According to the NAEP, otherwise known as the “Nations’ Report Card,” Louisiana as a state jumped from last place in 2019 to 16th place in 2024, leaping over 35 state rankings in the matter of five years! How did they do it?

Louisiana implemented a comprehensive literacy plan rooted in phonics, transforming how reading is taught statewide and equipping educators with the training to help students thrive. It invested in professional learning to equip teachers and leaders with the skills to effectively leverage high-quality instructional materials while reducing bureaucracy, excessive trainings, and classroom disruptions.

“Our intentional focus on equipping teachers and leaders is one of the main factors that has translated into academic growth for Louisiana children,” said Deputy Superintendent Dr. Jenna Chiasson. “By providing educators with meaningful professional learning, coaching, and collaboration opportunities, we have supported them in using high-quality instructional materials in service of students.”

Read more about the Louisiana Lift here: https://doe.louisiana.gov/about/news-releases/release/2025/01/29/louisiana-students-achieve-their-highest-national-rankings–on-the-nation-s-report-card

In a nutshell, how did they do it? They were intentional about it. They were serious about change. As a state, they decided that the status quo wasn’t just sad but that it was inexcusable. Long-term and widespread illiteracy was not an option. In the end, it was a question of will.

Does Montgomery County have this will? It starts with us!

And just to get us started, here’s a little known fact that should encourage us. The Superintendent of Schools in the state of Mississippi from 2013 to 2024 was Dr. Carey Wright. Dr. Wright is known as largely responsible for leading her state through its cultural shift to become a leader in literacy across the nation and a model for other states to emulate.

Where is Dr. Carey Wright today? Take a look: https://msde.maryland.gov/about-us/state-superintendent-schools

We can do this!