6/20/2024

LeVar Burton: Literacy is Freedom

Imagine a world where every child has the tools to successfully read, write, and raise their voice. A world where there are no opportunity gaps. A world where education is the great equalizer.

For decades, legendary actor, producer, and literacy advocate LeVar Burton has helped lead conversations about literacy through his work and beloved television series, Reading Rainbow.

Like Burton, Lexia® has worked hand in hand with educators for decades to make literacy a reality for all students. But there is still much work to be done. According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), only 35% of fourth grade students and 32% of eighth grade students in the U.S. read proficiently.

The research is clear: Virtually all young people can learn to read through literacy instruction grounded in the science of reading. By embracing evidence-based reading instruction, we can turn the tide of literacy learning in the U.S. and beyond—because literacy can and should be for all.

Watch and listen as Burton raises a rallying cry for the literacy transformation our young people need. We stand united by our commitment to realizing every child’s fundamental right to the liberatory power of reading.