New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Education (DOE) Chancellor David C. Banks on May 10th launched the citywide campaign, “New York City Reads,” to declare literacy and reading instruction as the core focus and overriding priority of New York City’s public schools. The campaign renews the commitment of public schools to the primary responsibility of ensuring the city’s students become confident readers and are able to learn basic algebra. With half of New York City students not proficient at reading, and more than two-thirds nationally, Mayor Adams and Chancellor Banks declared that now is the time for the city and nation to act.
“Reading is fundamental—and we must ensure that our young students are equipped with the skills necessary to become confident readers,” said U.S. Representative Jerry Nadler. “I’m proud to support the “New York City Reads” initiative to turn the tide of declining literacy rates by providing teachers with ongoing, intensive training for educators rooted in science.”
“Our youth have to be equipped with all the resources necessary to succeed, especially while recovering from the challenges of learning during the pandemic,” said New York State Senator Leroy Comrie. “I commend Mayor Adams and Chancellor Banks on getting back to basics with the “New York City Reads” Campaign. Literacy is a key component to academic success, and we must continue to encourage students to be confident readers through the use of proven methods while equipping teachers with the best possible curriculum tools available.”
