Closing Wisconsin’s Literacy Gap: The Key to a Stronger Democracy

We are thrilled to announce that Vice President Kamala Harris will be speaking at a rally in Green Bay this Thursday, Oct. 17. The campaign is offering you exclusive content creator access, providing a unique opportunity to capture and share this powerful event.

As someone who now sees themselves in this role, I can personally say it has been an empowering experience—one that allowed me to truly connect with the energy of the movement and share that feeling with my family. This is more than just an event; it’s a moment to reflect on and be part of something bigger, something that resonates far beyond the rally itself.

You can feel it. The beat, the energy, the excitement, and the hope are all around. We have found it—"A New Way Forward." 

As we sit and wait for VP Kamala Harris to speak in Green Bay, it feels like we are on the edge of something transformative, a turning point for our future. This same energy and hope must be carried into addressing the educational challenges facing Wisconsin’s students today.

At this moment, as we rally for change, it’s clear that one of the most pressing challenges facing our state is ensuring every student is equipped with the tools to succeed—beginning with literacy.

Literacy is the foundation of democracy, empowering individuals to critically engage with the world, make informed decisions, and actively participate in the democratic process. Unfortunately, in Wisconsin, too many students are being left behind.

A Crisis in Literacy: Wisconsin’s Students Falling Behind

Recent data reveals that 71.2% of students with disabilities in Wisconsin are not meeting English Language Arts (ELA) standards. 


This is not just an educational crisis—it’s a threat to the future of our state and democracy. Without strong literacy skills, our students will be unable to fully engage with the world, from understanding voting ballots to interpreting policies that directly impact their lives.

Why Dictionaries Matter: A Tool for Building Language Proficiency

A new way forward must begin with equipping students with the fundamental tools they need. Something as simple as a dictionary—such as Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary—may seem small, but it is a powerful tool in building language proficiency. It helps students expand their vocabulary, deepen their comprehension, and develop the critical thinking skills necessary for democratic participation.

Addressing the Challenges

Of course, moving forward comes with challenges. Funding is key, but through a combination of state support and community-driven initiatives, we can prioritize investments in literacy. It’s also important not to rely solely on tools like dictionaries—comprehensive literacy programs, teacher training, and individualized approaches are essential for real progress. To overcome systemic barriers, we need to advocate for equal access to resources, especially in underserved areas. Teachers, too, will need ongoing support and proper training to ensure they aren’t overwhelmed by these changes. While progress might take time, patience and commitment are essential to achieving lasting results.

Call to Action: Addressing the Literacy Crisis for a Stronger Democracy

As we look to "A New Way Forward," we must prioritize closing the literacy gap in Wisconsin. Addressing this crisis requires better reading instruction, more resources in schools, and access to tools that support language development. By doing so, we not only improve educational outcomes but also empower students to become informed citizens who can contribute to the future of our democracy.

Sincerely 

Shawn Anthony Robinson PhD

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