Improving Reading Proficiency for New York Children
Governor Hochul’s 'Back to Basics' reading plan ensures that students in every school district are taught the foundational skills they need to become proficient readers. The improved curriculum will use instructional best practices grounded in the Science of Reading to improve the reading comprehension of New York's students.
By September of 2025, all school districts will need to certify with the State Education Department (SED) that their curriculum, instructional strategies, and teacher professional development align with all elements of the evidenced-based reading instruction.
'Back to Basics' Plan Details
Unveiling the ‘Back to Basics’ Plan
Science of Reading
Reading as the Foundation of Education
Governor Hochul speaks at a podium to students at Watervliet Elementary School.
Students at Watervliet Elementary School listen to a speaker.
Governor Hochul unveiled her Back to Basics plan to improve reading proficiency.
Governor Hochul speaks with students in a reading circle at Watervliet Elementary School.
Governor Hochul speaks to students at Watervliet Elementary School.
Governor Hochul speaks with a student at Watervliet Elementary School.
Students at Watervliet Elementary School listen to a speaker.
Governor Hochul visits the Watervliet Elementary School.
Governor Hochul speaks to a student audience at Watervliet Elementary School.
A student at Watervliet Elementary School speaks to an audience.
Students at Watervliet Elementary School listen to Governor Hochul speak.
The Back to Basics plan to improve reading proficiency in New York is unveiled.
The Back to Basics plan to improve reading proficiency in New York is unveiled.
Governor Hochul speaks at a podium to a student audience at Watervliet Elementary School.
The Back to Basics plan to improve reading proficiency in New York is unveiled.
Governor Hochul speaks at a podium to students at Watervliet Elementary School.