by Marijane Suttor

Created on: November 22, 2008   Last Updated: October 21, 2011

Literacy, like most other academic skills, cannot simply be improved with another government program nor more standardized tests, nor the penalizing of school districts for not meeting annual yearly progress. Yet, the government can play a major role in literacy improvement.

PRE-SCHOOL EDUCATION

Continued and additional funding must be apportioned for the Head Start program. According to the National Head Start Association, students who participate in the Head Start program have increased earnings, employment and family stability. Head Start reduces the costs for school districts because less funding is needed due to grade repetition and fewer special education students. Many families unfortunately fall between the cracks of qualifying for Head Start and being able to afford private pre-schools. Head Start should be provided for any child whose family cannot afford private pre-school. It should not just be connected to income level.

PRE-KINDERGARTEN

The government should provide funding to school districts to offer pre-kindergarten classes. This can assist children in getting a better start from the beginning for those children who are not ready for kindergarten. According to the National Institute for Early Childhood Education, studies show that pre-kindergarten strengthens a child's commitment and attitude toward school while enhancing the parenting skills of the children's parents. It has a positive impact on family relationships. Improving the attitude of children toward school can be half the battle. If school seems too difficult and frustrating, it will result in poor attitude which may lead to increased problems as the child continues through school.

SMALLER CLASS SIZES

One of the most effective ways to improve literacy is to give teachers smaller class sizes. Smaller class sizes allow for more one-on-one assistance and attention to students. It also gives teachers more planning time as less time is spent correctly papers for a large amount of student. Increased funding can allow districts to lower the class sizes to provide better education for students.

LIBRARIES

There has been a significant loss of trained librarians in the schools. Many schools do not have librarians with degrees working in the schools. Rural schools in states that do not require librarians to be on staff, often has aides with high school educations working in the libraries instead of hiring certified librarians. Libraries are one of the first places that many districts cut funding. Staff

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