Greetings District 5150 Rotarians,
September is Basic Education and Literacy Month. We know that these skills are essential for reducing poverty, improving health, encouraging community and economic development, and promoting peace. Yet in many urban areas, even our own S.F. Bay Area, many underserved and at-risk children are not meeting basic education standards. In 2019, before the pandemic upended instruction, only 35% of 4th graders met the standards for reading proficiency set by the National Assessment of Educational Progress.
September is Basic Education and Literacy Month. We know that these skills are essential for reducing poverty, improving health, encouraging community and economic development, and promoting peace. Yet in many urban areas, even our own S.F. Bay Area, many underserved and at-risk children are not meeting basic education standards. In 2019, before the pandemic upended instruction, only 35% of 4th graders met the standards for reading proficiency set by the National Assessment of Educational Progress.
We also have many adults facing low literacy issues, especially where English is their second language. California ranks in the bottom 5 states, where 1 in 4 people over the age of 15 lack basic English reading and writing skills. Adults who are functionally literate are able to engage in activities that enable them to function effectively in society. Adults tend to be more motivated to learn when they understand the practical outcomes they can gain. Acquiring functional literacy skills fosters a sense of self-fulfillment, empowers learners with the ability to improve their families’ living standards, and may also encourage parents to be more active in their children’s education.
Rotarians can make an incredible difference in this vital area. I encourage you to learn more about the ways you and your club can help by referring to Rotary’s guides to this topic:
- Supporting Education
- Basic Education and Literacy Project Strategies
Thanks for being the change YOU wish to see in your communities.
Gary Chow
Governor, 2022-2023
Rotary International
District 5150
