Reading program needed

Dear editor:

I have been researching the reading proficiency within Arkansas and have come across some unsettling statistics.

Seven out of every 10 fourth-grade students within Arkansas cannot proficiently read. As these children lacking reading ability grow into adults, more than 50 percent will drop out of high school, receive government aid, or find themselves within our prison system. These statistics clearly point out the glaring problem within Arkansas’ school systems. If we do not enforce a solution to this problem, our state will continue farther down the slope of reading inability.

This ongoing problem has seen little improvement within recent years and must be dealt with. In order to raise the reading proficiency rates in Arkansas, we, as a community, must support and encourage the youth to read. Summer reading programs through local libraries are a no-cost way to influence young students and their reading abilities. Those who participate within summer reading programs have shown higher standardized tests scores and better overall school performance.

The reading crisis within Arkansas is one that can be solved through determination and ongoing encouragement for education. As someone who cares greatly for education and the future of the next generation, I encourage you to take root and support the introduction of summer reading programs within your own city. Alexx Weaver High school student