Protecting and Promoting School Choice

EFI Publications

US Illiteracy Crisis: Why Johnny Still Can’t Read

The article discusses the persistent issue of illiteracy in the U.S., referencing the 1955 book ‘Why Johnny Can’t Read’ that warned of rising illiteracy rates. It notes that despite the alarm sounded half a century ago, the problem has only worsened. Author Vince Bielski examines the ongoing challenges in American education contributing to this trend.

Key Points

  • References the 1955 book ‘Why Johnny Can’t Read’ as an early warning on U.S. illiteracy.
  • Highlights that illiteracy rates have worsened over the past 50 years.
  • Explores factors contributing to the decline in reading proficiency in American schools.

Implications for Educational Freedom

This illiteracy crisis underscores government overreach in public education systems that fail to deliver results, bolstering the case for school choice and vouchers to empower parents with alternatives. It highlights the need for parental rights to select effective educational options like charters or ESAs to address these systemic failures.

Source: Will Johnny Ever Learn To Read?

Share: