Help push literacy policy forward in Pennsylvania by urging your representatives to sign on to the <a href="https://cm.teachplus.org/t/r-l-thltdhz-nhhmkjihr-j/" target="_blank"><ins>co-sponsor memo</ins></a> put out by Rep. Jason Ortitay &amp; Rep. Justin Flemming.
~ What's a co-sponsor memo? It's the first step in the legislative process—lawmakers sign on to show support for an upcoming bill.&nbsp;
~ Why does it matter?The more legislators who sign on, the stronger the momentum for meaningful literacy policy!&nbsp;
Take action today: Join the PA Literacy Coalition in urging our state representatives to co-sponsor this effort! Take 30 seconds to fill out your information and send a message to your representative!

Urge Your State Representatives to Sign-On to the Structured Literacy Co-Sponsor Memo!

Let's cultivate legislator support for Strengthening PA’s Structured Literacy Initiative (Act 135 of 2024) 

I am writing to you as your constituent to urge you to sign on to the co-sponsor memo introduced by Representatives Jason Ortitay and Justin Fleming in support of Strengthening Pennsylvania's Structured Literacy Initiative (Act 135 of 2024).

According to the Nation’s Report Card, just 1 in 3 Pennsylvania fourth graders (33%) is proficient in reading (NAEP 2024). This represents a continued decline in literacy rates, with significant long-term consequences for our students, workforce, and economy.

We must act now. Fourth grade is a critical turning point—students transition from learning to read to reading to learn. Without strong literacy skills by this stage, students are at a much higher risk of falling behind permanently, increasing dropout rates, and limiting career opportunities.

I am joining the PA Literacy Coalition in calling on the PA General Assembly for a $100 million investment in evidence-based literacy policies as part of the 2025 state budget. This funding will support:
- Teacher training and coaching in the science of reading
- Universal literacy screeners to identify and support struggling readers early
- High-quality instructional materials aligned with the science of reading

Your support for this co-sponsor memo will help build momentum for meaningful literacy policy change and ensure that every child in Pennsylvania has access to effective, evidence-based reading instruction.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I hope you will sign on and support this critical investment.

Best,

Urge Your State Representatives to Sign-On to the Structured Literacy Co-Sponsor Memo!

Let's cultivate legislator support for Strengthening PA’s Structured Literacy Initiative (Act 135 of 2024)

Message

Dear Office Holder (names will be automatically added on each email),