Creating more
moments like this.
Data is a powerful tool for justice. The figures below reflect what we’ve achieved together—and the momentum we carry forward.
There’s still much to do in ending Philly’s early literacy crisis.
Over 70% of our children are reading below grade level by 4th grade. Setting them up to struggle in school, fall further behind, feel lost and even ashamed.
But the story doesn’t end there.
120+ partners and countless community champions.
Families are receiving more books for their home libraries.
And resources to make the most of life’s teachable moments.
2,878,570+
Books Shared
Read by 4th’s partners have distributed millions of books to families citywide since 2016.
4,462
enrolled in Parent Powered
Philly families have not only downloaded Parent Powered text tips, 98% say they’re loving them.
40,746+
Reading Promise visits
ReadingPromise.org is a site where Philly families can learn and share tips to help grow young readers.
POWERFUL POLICY CHANGE
PA legislature unanimously pass Senate Bill 801.
Reading is everywhere thanks to playful learning installations.
We Will Write the World murals, Philly ABCs, The Nest, Come Aboard the Reading Promise and more!
49
Playful Learning Installations
Playful Learning installations built or in progress since 2016.
1,091+
Reading
Captains
Reading Captains citywide are helping their neighbors grow young readers one conversation at a time.
201
Reading Promise Week Events
Since 2020, Philly’s family literacy festival has brought book block parties, author read alouds, and more family fun citywide.
New curriculum in Philadelphia embraces the Science of Reading
The School District of Philadelphia is embracing evidence-based practices.
NEIGHBORHOOD LITERACY FUND
$81,040 awarded for community-driven literacy projects—and more to come.
13
Literacy-Focused
Universities
Philadelphia-area colleges and universities have been accredited through the IDA Knowledge and Practice Standards for Teachers of Reading.
22
High-dosage tutoring partners
Read by 4th partners are investing in evidence-based tutoring for children who need additional support.
17,000
quality PreK seats
Research shows that high-quality pre-K programs significantly contribute to students developing strong early literacy skills.
A CITY’S READING PROMISE
How ‘reading captains’ are fueling Philadelphia’s push to improve early literacy
