Almost one in three of the 22 million American high school and middle school students are "struggling readers," according to a new study funded by the federal government.
- The researchers used a five year statistical analysis from the Carnegie Corporation of New York Council on Advancing Adolescent Literacy.
- They found that almost 70% of eighth-graders and 65% of 12 graders cannot read at grade level.
- Reading proficiency among older children is actually declining.
The report calls for increased federal funding for high school and middle school reading programs. However, the authors noted that statewide reading initiatives for older students in Florida, Alabama, Kentucky, Rhode Island, New Jersey and other states have failed to produce significant results.
Academic struggles that can result from reading deficiencies can lead to a host of other problems for teens, including self-esteem issues, poor self-image, depression and substance abuse.
Labels: reading
Posted By: Jane St. Clair