'Mississippi Miracle': Kids' Reading Scores Have Soared In Deep South States

Gone are the days when people would dismissively say, "Thank God for Mississippi," implying that their state couldn't possibly be worse when it came to literacy rates. The narrative surrounding the Gulf South states is changing, and they are now being seen as models of progress. Mississippi, Louisiana, and Alabama have undergone remarkable turnarounds in their reading scores, capturing the attention of educators across the nation. These states, despite grappling with long-standing issues of poverty and low literacy rates, have implemented innovative reforms centered around phonics and early screenings for struggling students. The ripple effect of this transformation is undeniable. States like Tennessee, North Carolina, Georgia, Kentucky, and Virginia have taken notice and adopted similar policies. Mississippi's ascent in the rankings has even led to phone calls from approximately two dozen states seeking guidance from the influential Barksdale Institute, an organization shaping literacy policy in the state. While these states have made significant progress, they still have a long way to go in ensuring that every child can read. So, what sets these states apart? They have prioritized the science of reading and invested in comprehensive teacher training. Thousands of educators have been equipped with research-backed methods of teaching reading, and literacy coaches have been deployed to support teachers, especially in underperforming schools. Early intervention has become a key strategy, involving screening for reading deficiencies or dyslexia in kindergarten and providing additional support for identified students. Consequences and support go hand in hand in these states. For instance, Mississippi holds back third-grade students who cannot pass a reading test but also offers multiple chances for success through intensive tutoring and summer literacy camps. Alabama is set to adopt a similar retention policy, while also sending struggling readers to summer literacy camps. The results have been promising, with half of the participating students testing at grade level by the end of the summer. One school that has witnessed the positive impact of these reforms is Schaumburg Elementary in New Orleans. Teachers at the school have received training in the science of reading, enabling them to better understand their students' needs. The proportion of kindergarteners reading at grade level in the ReNEW charter network increased from 38% to 55%, and first-graders jumped from 19% to 43%. However, implementing small-group interventions comes with its own challenges, such as scheduling and staffing constraints. The state's literacy coaches are assisting schools like Schaumburg Elementary in strategizing ways to reach all students effectively. Yet, one invaluable resource they can't provide is time. What's remarkable about these reforms is the bipartisan support they have garnered. In a polarizing education landscape, the Gulf South states passed sweeping education reforms with unity, inspired by the successes of other states in the region. Legislators, such as Louisiana's Richard Nelson, have been able to rally support across party lines by pointing to the achievements in Mississippi and elsewhere. Despite the progress, there is still work to be done, especially in the face of disruptions caused by the pandemic and natural disasters. The Gulf South states are aware of the challenges and are committed to breaking the cycle of generational poverty. They recognize that creating multiple generations of readers is a long-term commitment and an essential step toward empowering their communities. In a nation where education debates often divide, these states are united in their determination to prioritize literacy and ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed. The Mississippi miracle has shown that rapid progress is achievable, even in regions that have faced historical obstacles. Through a steadfast focus on evidence-based practices, dedicated teacher training, early intervention, and a commitment to long-term solutions, these states are transforming the narrative and inspiring the nation with their achievements.