By now, you might have already heard about what is being called the “third grade reading guarantee.” The governor was very adamant about this provision when he proposed the MBR earlier this year, and it has generated attention from the media and for people throughout the state. The goal of this program is to strengthen the literacy rate among Ohio’s elementary students.


Other states that have implemented programs like this have seen great success in children’s reading abilities. Being able to read enhances opportunities so then all children can reach their goals later in life. Although it is often taken for granted, not having the skill to read can result in the loss of opportunities, many of which are never overcome.
As the chairman of the House Education Committee, I heard very powerful testimony and debate on this bill. Someone giving testimony on the bill pointed out that students “learn to read in K-3, and they read to learn from fourth grade on.” To me, this means that reading gets more difficult—but also more important—the older you get.

We owe it to future generations to ensure they are equipped with the critical gift of superb reading skills.