Strengthening Literacy in Arkansas Through the Science of Reading 

By Linetta Jackson, Elementary Assistant Principal, Arkansas Virtual Academy 

This op-ed from Arkansas Virtual Academy Elementary Assistant Principal Linetta Jackson originally appeared in the February 27, 2025 edition of Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. 

Reading is the foundation of education, shaping how children learn, communicate and succeed academically and beyond. However, across the country, reading proficiency is in decline, and Arkansas is no exception.  

In 2023, only 14% of 13-year-olds reported reading for fun nearly every day. Meanwhile, according to the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) 2024 Report Card released in January, 40% of Arkansas fourth graders are reading below basic proficiency levels. 

Children who struggle to read by fourth grade are more likely to fall behind in all subjects, disengage from learning and ultimately be at risk of not graduating high school. 

At Arkansas Virtual Academy (ARVA), we are committed to reversing this trend by providing students with evidence-based reading instruction rooted in the Science of Reading. This research-backed approach is transforming how Arkansas students learn to read — and with the right strategies, parents can play a pivotal role in this movement as well. 

5 Keys to Reading 

Arkansas has taken an important step forward by prioritizing the Science of Reading in schools across the state. Unlike outdated teaching methods that rely on memorization or guessing strategies, the Science of Reading focuses on how children’s brains actually learn to read. 

The Science of Reading is built on five key components that schools can integrate into their curriculum: 

• Phonemic Awareness – Understanding and manipulating sounds in spoken words 

• Phonics – Recognizing letter-sound relationships to decode words 

• Fluency – Reading smoothly with accuracy and expression 

• Vocabulary – Learning new words and their meanings 

• Comprehension – Understanding and interpreting texts 

Ignite a Love for Reading 

Here are some simple ways to help your child build strong reading habits at home: 

Balance Screen Time 
In today’s digital world, students spend a significant part of their day on screens for learning and entertainment. While technology offers valuable educational opportunities, setting aside dedicated time for reading books— can help strengthen literacy skills and foster a love for reading. 

Start Early & Read Aloud – A study from Ohio State University found that children who are read to daily hear 290,000 more words by age 5 than those who aren’t. Reading aloud strengthens language pathways in the brain and builds vocabulary. 

Make Reading Interactive – Turn books into hands-on experiences. After reading “Charlotte’s Web,” visit a farm. Pair “A Wrinkle in Time” with its movie adaptation. Activities like these bring stories to life and deepen engagement. 

Let Kids Choose Their Books – While school reading lists are important, allowing kids to pick books based on their interests fosters a love for reading. Graphic novels, fantasy adventures and nonfiction topics can all be valuable choices. 

Try Audiobooks – Audiobooks improve pronunciation, fluency and comprehension while making stories more engaging for reluctant readers. 

Read Together – Shared reading strengthens comprehension, vocabulary and family bonds. Take turns reading, discuss the story and ask questions to build critical thinking skills. 

Arkansas is making strides in literacy education, but work still needs to be done. By combining structured, research-based reading instruction with parental involvement, we can reverse the reading crisis and empower students to achieve their full potential. 

Author Bio 

Linetta Jackson has dedicated 20 years to education, shaping young minds and fostering a love for learning. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Education in Early Childhood Education, a Master of Science in Education in Reading, and a Master of Education in Library Media and Information Specialist. Her experience spans elementary teaching, reading interventions and library media, and she is currently in her second year as the ARVA Elementary Assistant Principal. Linetta believes reading is the foundation of all learning—a key that unlocks endless possibilities. It sparks imagination, fuels curiosity and builds the path to success. “To learn to read is to light a fire; every syllable that is spelled out is a spark.” – Victor Hugo 

Beyond education, Linetta is a church youth leader, worship leader, and a 4-H volunteer. She enjoys reading, photography and spending time with her family, and she never misses a chance to indulge in cinnamon bread at Silver Dollar City. At home in Arkadelphia, she and her husband keep busy raising their three children—along with goats and rabbits! 

Back to Blog