FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 26, 2026

CONTACT:
Chanthy Lopes
Clopestoro@edtrust.org

EdTrust in Massachusetts Statement on the Passage of the “Right to Read” Early Literacy Law

BOSTON, MA – “Today, Massachusetts has taken a decisive step toward making literacy a reality for every child through the enactment of the comprehensive “Right to Read” early literacy law.

Literacy is a fundamental civil right essential for academic achievement, access to postsecondary opportunities, and full participation as an informed and engaged citizen. Yet, too many students across the Commonwealth — especially Black and Latino students, multilingual learners, students with disabilities, and students from low-income backgrounds — have struggled to read proficiently. This is due to a systemic failure to provide students with the tools and resources needed to become proficient readers. This bipartisan law begins to change that by ensuring that every student in grades K-3 learns to read through evidence-based practices grounded in the science of reading.

“We were proud to spend the past two years advocating for this legislation alongside the MassReads coalition, and to amplify that work with our partners on the Massachusetts Education Equity Partnership through our #LiteracyIsLiberation campaign. We are especially grateful to partners like MassPotential, whose leadership helped steward our collective advocacy into a powerful force for change.

“Improving educational outcomes is complex; however, the path to stronger literacy results is clear. Decades of research have identified the instructional practices that help students learn to read, providing a strong foundation for academic success and lifelong opportunity. This new legislation reflects what the evidence consistently highlights: nearly every child can become a proficient reader when taught with evidence-based approaches grounded in the science of reading. Ensuring that every student has access to educators prepared to deliver high-quality instruction, supported by evidence-based instructional materials, is essential to advancing educational equity. For Massachusetts, this means moving beyond inconsistent practices toward a coherent statewide strategy that gives every student — regardless of background or zip code — a better opportunity to become proficient in reading.

“At the same time, passing legislation is only the first step. Effective implementation, ongoing support for educators, and sustained investment in evidence-based literacy practices will be critical to ensuring this effort delivers on its promise.
“EdTrust in Massachusetts is deeply grateful to the Legislature and Healey-Driscoll administration for their leadership in enacting this landmark law. We look forward to partnering with policymakers, educators, advocates, and communities to support effective implementation and continue building a comprehensive literacy strategy that gives every student — from early childhood through high school — the opportunity to become a confident, proficient reader.”

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About EdTrust

EdTrust is committed to advancing policies and practices to dismantle the racial and economic barriers embedded in the American education system. Through our research and advocacy, EdTrust improves equity in education from preschool through college, engages diverse communities dedicated to education equity and justice, and increases political and public will to build an education system where students will thrive.