In the world of education, literacy is the foundation for lifelong learning. However, the latest 2024 NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) Reading data for Maryland reveals an alarming truth: too many children struggle to read at grade level.
These literacy deficits are more than just statistics—they represent real children who may face long-term challenges in school and beyond. If we do not intervene early, these gaps can limit opportunities, hinder academic success, and reinforce systemic inequities.
Maryland’s 4th-Grade Reading Performance
According to the 2024 NAEP Reading Snapshot Report for Maryland's 4th graders:
Only 19% of Black students and 17% of Hispanic students scored at or above the Proficient level.
Economically disadvantaged students scored 32 points lower than their more affluent peers.
Overall, 41% of Maryland's 4th graders scored below the NAEP Basic level, meaning they are struggling with fundamental reading skills.
📊 Visualizing the Literacy Gap
Let’s look at what these numbers mean in a side-by-side comparison.
The disparities are stark and unacceptable. If we do not act now, these children will continue to fall behind in later grades, making it harder to catch up as curriculum demands increase.
Why This Matters: The Long-Term Impact of Poor Literacy
Reading proficiency in 4th grade is a critical milestone because:
✔️ Students transition from “learning to read” to “reading to learn”—if they are behind now, they will struggle with other subjects.
✔️ Low literacy rates increase the risk of dropping out—students who cannot read proficiently by 4th grade are four times more likely to leave school without a diploma.
✔️ Limited literacy affects career opportunities—strong reading skills are essential for higher education, workforce readiness, and economic mobility.
If we do not address these gaps now, we are setting these children up for lifelong disadvantages.
How SOL Learning Center Supports Literacy Development
At SOL Learning Center, we believe that every child deserves access to high-quality literacy support. Our programs are designed to:
📚 Provide Individualized Literacy Support: Each student gets a customized learning plan to address their unique reading challenges.
📚 Use Culturally Responsive Teaching: We integrate stories, texts, and learning materials that reflect diverse cultures and experiences, making reading more engaging and relatable.
📚 Offer Small Group & One-on-One Tutoring: Personalized attention helps students develop confidence, improve comprehension, and strengthen foundational skills.
📚 Emphasize Phonics, Fluency, and Comprehension: We use research-backed strategies to bridge learning gaps and build strong reading habits.
Every Child Deserves to Read. Every Family Deserves a Choice.
Literacy is not a privilege—it is a basic right. As parents and educators, we must advocate for alternative learning solutions that meet the needs of all learners.
📢 Are you looking for a literacy-focused learning environment for your child?
📩 Contact SOL Learning Center today to explore our tutoring and homeschool support programs.
🔗 Learn More About Literacy & School Choice:
📚 NAEP Reading Report Card: Nation’s Report Card
📖 Maryland Homeschooling & Tutoring Resources: Maryland State Department of Education
🏫 School Choice Options in Maryland: Maryland Alliance of Public Charter Schools
📍 Website: Learningwithsol.com📧 Email: info@learningwithsol.com📱 Phone: 301-900-5790
Together, we can empower young readers and close the literacy gap—one child at a time. 🌱📖✨
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