Below is a brief summary and background on the new reading challenge. 40 percent of all children are now reading below the basic level on national reading assessments. This will be even more true as we move into the 21st century. To participate in America's high-skill workplaces, to cruise, much less use the Internet, all children need to read better than ever before.
Parents are their children's first teachers.
By reading to their children 30 minutes each day, turning off the TV, going with their child to their library, every parent can set an example and give their children the firm foundation they need to do well in school. Our nation's schools, libraries, religious institutions, community and national organizations, the media, universities, business leaders and millions of our nation's senior citizens are also essential in helping to meet this reading challenge. The President will challenge these groups and the entire nation to redouble their efforts to ensure the reading success of every young child. And he will challenge 1 million Americans from all walks of life to volunteer to tutor young children in reading. A Head Start for One Million 4 and 5 year olds.