More than half of California’s students are below grade level in English language arts, and experts believe that the way reading is taught is a major contributing factor. To address this issue, a new Assembly bill has been introduced that would mandate the use of the science of reading in all California schools. This approach, which is based on phonics and has been proven to be more effective in teaching literacy, would be required in an effort to improve literacy rates.
Assemblywoman Blanca Rubio, a Democrat from Baldwin Park, introduced the bill, which is supported by Marshall Tuck, the CEO of EdVoice, an education policy organization. While many schools in California have already transitioned to the science of reading approach, some still use a method called balanced literacy or whole language, which incorporates both phonics and sight recognition of words. The debate surrounding the best way to teach reading has been intense, as literacy skills are closely tied to graduation rates, employment opportunities, incarceration rates, and the overall economy of the state.
Despite research indicating the effectiveness of phonics, the reading wars are far from over. Advocates for English learners have been hesitant to fully embrace phonics, as they believe it may not address these learners’ unique language needs and skills, such as comprehension and spoken English. Martha Hernandez, executive director of Californians Together, an English learner advocacy group, did not comment on the bill as she had not yet seen it.
Teachers unions have historically opposed legislation mandating specific teaching methods, especially in relation to literacy. They argue that teachers should have the freedom to utilize the approaches that work best for their students. The California Teachers Association, the largest teachers union in the state, did not respond to a request for comment.
If passed, the bill would require teacher training and special attention to be given to English learners. Its proponents argue that it is necessary due to California’s troubling literacy rate. Only 43% of third graders in the state were reading at grade level according to the most recent Smarter Balanced test results, with particularly low scores among low-income students, as well as Black and Latino students. Even with substantial investments made to support students in recovering from remote learning, English language arts scores actually dropped slightly last year. Prior to the pandemic, just over half of California students were reading at grade level.
The goal of the bill is to address these profound educational disparities and ensure that all students, regardless of their background, receive high-quality reading instruction. By embracing the science of reading, advocates believe that California can significantly improve its literacy rates and provide students with the skills they need to succeed academically and beyond.
