Washington Reading Program Lifts Kids 3 Levels in 6 Weeks

Struggling third and fourth graders across Washington state are jumping three reading levels in just six weeks, thanks to a simple formula: books, pizza, and family time together.

The Prime Time Family Reading Program brings together families who've decided reading just isn't for them. Kids who haven't responded to school interventions gather weekly at libraries and after-school programs for something different.

"We start off with a really simple meal, pizza or burritos," said Julie Ziegler, CEO of Humanities Washington, which runs the program. "Hungry tummies don't learn well."

After dinner, storytellers read books out loud and lead conversations that draw families in. The program helps parents who feel hesitant about reading to their own kids. Every week, families take home books to read together before the next meeting.

Teachers report remarkable results. Over the six-week program, participants often leap forward three or more reading levels. Many families continue their weekly library trips long after the program ends.

The program got a boost in 2022 with $1 million in federal funding, allowing it to expand across the state. Right now, 92 communities want to host the program. Budget cuts have reduced that to just 20 locations funded by private foundations.

The Bright Side

Communities aren't giving up on their young readers. The Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribe partnered with Kitsap Regional Library to keep their program running. KBTC public television teamed up with the Tacoma Housing Authority to serve their families.

Ziegler is seeking $500,000 from state lawmakers to meet statewide demand. The program focuses on communities without access to private funders, ensuring every family gets a chance.

In January, Congress approved legislation that could direct $1.2 million to Humanities Washington for all its programs. While Ziegler remains cautious after last year's cuts, she's hopeful the funding will come through.

The program does more than boost reading scores. It connects families to their local libraries and gives them books to keep. For reluctant readers who thought books weren't for them, six weeks of stories and burritos can change everything.

Families across Washington are proving that the right support at the right time can turn struggling readers into confident ones.