This slide presentation first provides, in a concise form, background information on the Reading Excellence Act program authorized in 1998. It then presents a chart of fourth-grade reading achievement in 1998 from the National Assessment of Educational Progress. It also outlines some findings from reading research and lists the six dimensions of…

This slide presentation outlines the components of the Reading Excellence Program. It gives the background of the Reading Excellence Act of 1998; and states that 1999 state grantees were in 17 states and would be in 14-16 states in 2000. It provides content and key strategy: six dimensions of reading, use of scientific research base; informs about…

Argues that the International Reading Association (IRA) has an important and key role to play in the current volatile United States government policy environment. Looks at perceptions of literacy failure. Discusses the Association's involvement with the Reading Excellence Act, and outlines what the Association must continue to do to assure that…