As writers who serve with the Florida Writers Foundation, we’re passionate about improving literacy skills in our home state, an issue that extends far beyond our ability to sell books. While state data shows some improvement in student literacy, the national trend for both students and adults reveals a decline in reading scores since 2022.
Florida continues to fall below the national average for adult literacy. In 2024, assessments revealed that nearly 20% of adult residents—over three million Floridians—struggle to read and understand basic information. This means millions find it difficult to perform essential tasks like reading a prescription label or completing a job application. Approximately one in four adults in the state has a reading comprehension level below basic.
There is a strong correlation between these literacy challenges and poverty. In fact, eight of the ten counties with the lowest literacy scores are also among the state’s poorest. Adults who lack confidence in their English literacy skills often struggle to earn sufficient wages and secure jobs with necessary benefits like health insurance. This can trap families in a generational cycle of poverty and despair, which weakens the entire community structure.
The trend is also visible in schools. Florida’s fourth-grade reading proficiency scores declined in 2024 compared to 2022, though they remain above the national average. However, eighth-graders saw a similar decline that placed them well below the national average. In contrast, children who develop strong literacy skills are much more likely to succeed personally, support their families, and grow into community leaders.
While Florida has launched programs like Just Read, Florida! and the New Worlds Reading Initiative, you and I can also help create change. At the Florida Writers Foundation, we raise funds for and volunteer with smaller non-profit organizations that work directly with adults and children in challenged communities to strengthen their reading comprehension skills.
You can help change someone’s world today! Visit us at FloridaWritersFoundation.net and set up a small monthly donation.
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