Augusta, GA — Georgia is intensifying efforts to improve literacy rates among its students, following a recent report by the National Assessment of Educational Progress, which ranked the state 28th in the nation for 4th grade reading proficiency.

In response to these findings, the Georgia Literacy Council is advocating for increased funding and enhanced programs aimed at bolstering reading abilities across the state. As part of this push, Georgia Reads recently awarded $250,000 in grants to 10 communities, with each recipient receiving $25,000 to support initiatives such as hiring tutors, literacy coaches, and expanding early development reading programs.

The recipients of the 2025 Georgia Reads Community Awards include a diverse mix of school districts and community organizations, such as Believe Greater Dalton, Ben Hill School District, Black Child Development Institute-Atlanta, and Cobb Collaborative, Inc., among others. These organizations are tasked with improving literacy within their respective communities and sharing effective strategies with other regions across Georgia.

“Literacy is an essential skill, not just for academics but for everyday life,” said a spokesperson for the Georgia Literacy Council. “It impacts communication, writing, and overall success in personal and professional endeavors.”

The initiative comes at a time when data shows that more than a third of Georgia’s 3rd graders are reading below grade level. As part of the effort to address this issue, the council is focusing on reviewing and improving curricula and teaching strategies, especially for underserved populations, including low-income and minority families, as well as students with dyslexia.

In addition to these community-driven efforts, the Georgia Literacy Council is urging state lawmakers to allocate more funding for literacy coaches. These coaches are vital to supporting teachers and students in improving literacy outcomes. In 2023, Georgia lawmakers took a significant step in this direction by approving a bill that established a 30-member council tasked with helping to hire literacy coaches statewide.

The push for greater resources and support comes as education leaders recognize that improving literacy is critical for student success beyond the classroom. With efforts already underway, the Georgia Literacy Council and its partners remain committed to ensuring that every child in the state has the tools and resources necessary to succeed in reading and communication.