At the end of the 2024 school year, 50% of Utah’s 3rd graders demonstrated the ability to read on grade level (Data Gateway, 2024). While this performance exceeds that of most other states, it is clear that there is room for improvement. Reading on grade level by the end of third grade is a critical milestone–one that strongly predicts future academic success and life outcomes. As students move into fourth grade, the focus of instruction shifts from learning to read to using reading as a tool to acquire knowledge across subjects. This transition makes it even more urgent that we help students reach the foundational goal of reading at grade level by the third grade.

With half of Utah’s third-grade students still needing additional support to become proficient readers, we must commit to providing the necessary resources and strategies to ensure every child learns to read. Over the past few years, K-3 educators in Utah have received intensive training on the science of reading. Now, it is crucial that we fully leverage this knowledge to benefit our students. To achieve success in early literacy, the following four strategies are essential:

1. Ongoing Teacher Professional Development: Teachers must consistently integrate their new knowledge of evidence-based reading practices into daily instruction. This requires a sustained commitment to refining their skills and approaches.

2. Job-Embedded Coaching and Support: Instructional coaches should provide targeted, on-demand support for teachers, helping them implement best practices in reading instruction. This coaching should be aligned with the latest research on what works in teaching reading.

3. Leadership Monitoring and Accountability: School and district leaders need to closely monitor instructional practices, offer constructive feedback, and support teachers in applying what they’ve learned. School and district leaders must ensure that teachers receive the necessary tools to continue improving their practice.

4. Family and Community Engagement: Parents, caregivers and family members play a critical role in supporting literacy development. By regularly reading with children, they can expose them to new ideas, expand their vocabularies, and provide valuable practice in reading.

   
   

If these four strategies are implemented effectively, we could expect that the state would achieve its goal of 70% of 3rd graders reading on grade level by the end of the 2026-2027 school year. Research indicates that 95% of students have the potential to become proficient readers. By working together—educators, families, and communities—we can make this goal a reality. Providing targeted support, leveraging the expertise of our educators and properly engaging families will ensure that every child has the opportunity to unlock the doors of academic and life success.

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The concept of school vouchers, which allows public tax dollars to be used for private schooling or homeschooling, is often touted as a way to increase educational options and improve outcomes. While this might be appealing in theory, over 40 years of research on voucher programs reveals extremely limited evidence that supports their effectiveness. Rather, the majority of studies reveal that vouchers fail to improve academic performance and, in some cases, negatively affect student learning. This lack of consistent positive results raises significant concerns about the viability of vouchers as a strategy for enhancing education.

If you had been following an exercise routine for 40 years and hadn't seen positive results—or worse, your health actually declined—would you continue with that routine? Yet, despite limited, supporting data on the effectiveness of Utah's voucher program after its first year, plans are underway to increase funding for vouchers by 200% in the next legislative session. This decision raises serious concerns about legislators committing substantial taxpayer dollars without solid evidence for improving student outcomes.

As taxpayers, we want our elected officials to be wise stewards of public funds. Increasing investment in a program that has yet to demonstrate positive outcomes seems unwise and premature. A more cautious, evidence-based approach would serve us better. For example, the state’s commitment to full-day kindergarten took over 15 years to be fully funded—during which time lawmakers took the time to carefully evaluate the program's impact before expanding it. We applaud legislators’ thoughtful approach with full-day kindergarten! This slow-and-steady approach allowed for measured growth and adaptation. School vouchers, by contrast, are being expanded without sufficient evidence of their effectiveness in improving student learning outcomes.

With unproven—and often negative—results from voucher programs nationwide, expanding Utah’s system without clear evidence of its effectiveness risks undermining public education as well as public trust. The Utah Legislature should consider revising the law to mandate comprehensive data collection on student outcomes, ensuring any investment in vouchers is backed by measurable proof of success.

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• Join us: Follow Education First on Facebook, X and Instagram to learn how you can empower Utah’s education system!

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In recent years, Utah's annual educator exit survey has revealed a troubling trend: many teachers feel unsupported in their roles. This growing concern highlights the urgent need for communities to rally behind educators who dedicate their lives to shaping our children’s future. Teachers face immense challenges, yet their passion and commitment remain resolute. As a community, we can take small but meaningful steps to change this narrative by actively showing our appreciation and support.

Whether you’re attending a holiday program, volunteering at a classroom party or connecting with a teacher online, take a moment to express gratitude for their hard work and impact. A simple thank-you, a heartfelt note or an acknowledgment of their impact can make a significant difference. Think about the teacher who motivated you to chase your dreams, provided comfort during tough times or helped your child thrive. An expression of genuine gratitude can uplift their spirits and reinforce their sense of purpose.

Your words and actions matter. Even small gestures of kindness can remind teachers that their efforts are valued and recognized. This holiday season, let’s come together to honor our dedicated educators. By doing so, we not only brighten their day, but also strengthen the foundation of our schools and communities for generations to come.

Get involved:

• Join us: Follow Education First on Facebook, X and Instagram to learn how you can empower Utah’s education system!

• Use your voice: Share our message on your platforms and within your networks. Use your influence to inform others about education policy!

• Spread the word: Forward this email to your family, friends and co-workers and invite them to subscribe to Education First’s weekly policy updates on educationfirstutah.org/join.

Join us as we make education Utah’s top priority!