New tools that track the literacy rates of children are a first in Sacramento County. In an effort to improve literacy rates among children, the Sacramento Public Library Foundation developed a literacy map and annual report card. By aggregating data on English Language Arts scores, Free and Reduced Meals Program participation and other factors, the Sacramento County Community Literacy Map illustrates the “hot spots” where students do not read at grade level. This project launched in 2018. The most recent map and report card was released this summer.

Sacramento Library Foundation Executive Director April Javist knew that summer reading programs and other literacy providers like 916Ink can have positive outcomes for young readers. However, nobody was assessing data from Sacramento County schools and reading programs in one place until last year. Now, the Library Foundation has become the Sacramento convener for the Campaign for Grade-Level Reading, which focuses on reading proficiency among third-graders.

This 2019 report card draws correlations between indicators like truancy, lack of kindergarten readiness, and participation in Free and Reduced Meals Program and children not reading at grade level. It also compares these rates in Sacramento County to the rates statewide.

April Javist joins Insight to discuss the latest literacy map and report card and the goals of the project. She’s joined by a young reader, Anaya McCloud.

Find more information about the annual Walk4Literacy on Oct. 26 here.