Delaware Launches Statewide Early Literacy Plan to Strengthen Reading in Every Classroom

1613725437 5892

The Early Literacy Plan’s goal is to close that gap within five years by aligning teacher training, instructional materials, and assessments.

By Jamie Kleman | Contributing Journalist Delaware Live | October 2025 (updated 10/17)

Delaware educators are turning a new page this fall with the launch of the state’s Early Literacy Plan – a multi-year initiative designed to boost reading skills for the youngest learners and support teachers with evidence-based instruction. The plan, announced by the Delaware Department of Education (DDOE), aims to ensure every student in grades K-3 can read proficiently by the end of third grade – a milestone that research shows is critical for long-term academic success.

A Focus on the “Science of Reading”

The Early Literacy Plan centers on the science of reading – an approach grounded in decades of research on how children learn to decode, comprehend, and enjoy written language. Delaware joins a growing number of states using this framework to reshape early reading instruction and teacher preparation.

“Delaware’s students – and the educators who serve them – deserve better reading support in every K-3 classroom, every day. This plan is the how: strong daily instruction; protected time and coaching for teachers; teams that put more adults with kids; and families as full-time partners,” said Secretary of Education Cindy Marten.

The initiative includes new professional development for teachers, updated reading curriculum aligned with the science of reading, and resources for families to reinforce learning at home.

Closing Gaps and Supporting Educators

While many Delaware schools already use evidence-based reading programs, the plan provides a consistent statewide structure and addresses disparities in access to high-quality materials. It also creates new pathways for reading specialists and literacy coaches to collaborate across districts.

According to state data, 43% of Delaware public school students are reading at grade level and meeting basic reading benchmarks. The Early Literacy Plan’s goal is to close that gap within five years by aligning teacher training, instructional materials, and assessments.

“Students flourish when professional educators are given the time, resources, and support to meet the needs of every child,” said Delaware State Education Association President Stephanie Ingram.

Families as Reading Partners

Parents and caregivers are also a key part of the plan’s success. The DDOE has launched a companion website with family toolkits that include storytime activities, phonics games, and strategies to build reading confidence at home. The site emphasizes that just 15 minutes of daily reading can significantly improve fluency and vocabulary by the end of elementary school.

Libraries and community centers across Delaware are expected to host literacy nights and family workshops beginning in early 2026.

Building a Culture of Reading

The Early Literacy Plan reflects Delaware’s broader effort to invest in student success from the earliest years – complementing initiatives like expanded pre-K access and high-impact tutoring.

“This is not another slogan or quick fix. This is not about asking teachers to do more. This plan is about daily practice – what happens in every K-3 classroom, every day. Delaware is building the system our teachers and students have always deserved: strong materials, sustained coaching, time to plan, and belief in every child’s potential,” Marten said.

For more details and family resources, visit education.delaware.gov/earlyliteracy.