Closing the Gap: The Case for a Stronger Foundation in Math and Reading for DC Students
By Jessica Giles, Executive Director, Education Reform Now DC
For years, the data has been clear: too many students in DC have been struggling in math and reading. But that doesn’t mean we’re powerless to change the trajectory. With the right investments and a commitment to focusing on the fundamentals in new and more effective ways, we can create a brighter future for all students.
The Role of Math in Empowering Tomorrow’s Workforce
New research from the Urban Institute underscores the importance of math proficiency for lifelong outcomes. A recent study found that math skills have an even greater impact on adult earnings than reading or health factors. Improving math education isn’t just about test scores; it’s about ensuring our students have the tools they need to succeed in life. Yet, we know that math performance in DC remains unacceptably low, with only 22% of students meeting expectations last year.
Despite the challenges, we have evidence-based strategies that are proven to work: high-impact tutoring, high-quality instruction materials and professional development, parent and caregiver support, and a thriving math teacher pipeline are proven to make a difference.
Back to Basics and the Science of Reading
In reading, we’ve made major advancements by embracing the ‘science of reading’—a data-backed approach that gives teachers the tools they need to teach reading effectively. However, the FY2025 budget only partially funds the implementation of the ‘science of reading’ in DC schools via a structured literacy training and coaching pilot for kindergarten teachers at up to 20 schools.
But what about training and coaching for teachers in other elementary school grades? Without full funding, we’re leaving too many students without access to the support they need to become confident, capable readers.
A New Way Forward
The challenges in math and reading aren’t new, but our approach to solving them must be. It starts with doing the basics better—equipping teachers with evidence-based tools, providing students with additional support, and making sure families are part of the solution.
For math, this means fully funding a comprehensive statewide plan to implement evidence-based solutions and ensure every District student has access to them through the upcoming Fiscal Year 2026 budgeting process. For reading, it means fully funding ‘science of reading’ in all elementary schools. These are achievable goals that can quite literally transform the lives of students across the District. The evidence is there and the strategy is clear.
At its heart, this work is about belief—belief in our students’ potential and belief that, together, we can create a public education system where all DC students succeed. The solutions are within reach, and the path forward is clear. Join our Math 4 All campaign and let’s go out and do the work. Now is the time to act.