Description

Show Notes
In this episode, we explore the state of literacy in Kansas and across the U.S., digging into the latest NAEP data to uncover what it really tells us about reading proficiency. We discuss the persistent gaps in achievement, the urgent need for systemic change, and the power of evidence-based instruction. Featuring voices from Diane Lyon, Kendra Heim, Alana McWilliams, Sarah Balzer, and other education leaders, we show how structured literacy and the Science of Reading offer a roadmap to reversing decades of decline.
In This Episode You’ll Hear:

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  Megan Steele on Kansas 10th graders’ proficiency levels and what the numbers mean for their future. Only 31% of U.S. 4th graders scored at or above proficient in reading in 2024, showing little long-term growth since 1992.

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  Dr. David Hurford breaking down national literacy statistics, the economic impact of adult illiteracy, and pockets of success across Kansas. Only 31% of U.S. 4th graders scored at or above proficient in reading in 2024, showing little long-term growth since 1992. Kansas mirrors the national picture: 28% of 4th graders are proficient, with some districts below 20%.

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  Diane Lyon and Alana McWilliams on interpreting Kansas data, equity gaps, and why structured literacy is essential for all students. Behind every statistic is a child, a teacher, and a family — and action at the policy, school, and community level can change the trajectory.

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  Kendra Heim on how reading struggles show up in classrooms and what teachers need to close the gaps. Early identification and structured literacy are critical for closing gaps, especially for students with dyslexia, English learners, and students from low-income households.

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  Sarah Balzer on the global perspective: dyslexia doesn’t discriminate, and access to trained teachers transforms outcomes.

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  Daniel Morris and Amie Engelbrecht on the power of school-parent-teacher collaboration to help struggling readers, and the impact of missing this key component.

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  The goal of evidence-based instruction is to improve proficiency and reduce special education referrals; Mississippi is an example, rising from 28% to 43% proficiency after structured literacy adoption.

Key Quote:
"Numbers can either paralyze us or propel us. We have to choose the latter. The data tells us that the Science of Reading works. The question is whether we will have the courage to act on it." — Diane Lyon
Call to Action:

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  Parents: Schedule an assessment with Phillips Fundamental Learning Center at funlearn.org or call 316-684-7323. Bring your child’s scores and a PFLC diagnostic assessment to a parent-teacher meeting. Ask about curriculum and teacher training.
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  Community: Start a local petition or PTA agenda item asking for structured-literacy audits.
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  Policymakers: Request a briefing on HB 2322 implementation and funding.

Resources & References:

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  Allen, J. (2025, September 9). For immediate release: Statement on latest NAEP 12th grade reading and math results. Center for Education Reform. Link
  Data Walk: Reading Summit Mobilizes Community Around Childhood Literacy
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  Gaab, Nadine, PhD. (2017). It’s a Myth That Young Children Cannot Be Screened for Dyslexia! International Dyslexia Association (IDA).
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  Kansas Blueprint for Literacy Overview
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  Kansas State Department of Education. (2023–24). Year in Review
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  Meckler, L. (2025, September 9). Student test scores are sliding, reaching new lows. Washington Post. 
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  National Center for Education Statistics. (2025). NAEP 2024 Reading Snapshot Report for 4th Grade. U.S. Department of Education. 
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  2024 NAEP Reading Snapshot Report for Kansas Grade 4
• 2024-25 KSDE Approved Evidence-Based Programs Kansas School Districts can choose from, particularly for at-risk students, many of which align with structured literacy principles. 

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