Welcome to the Reading Opens the World Community, where we unite teachers and parents in the mission to spark a passion for reading in our children. Our collection of preK-12 resources is more than just an assortment of tools—it's a hub for those who understand that reading is the cornerstone of lifelong learning.
Imagine reading as the foundation of a house. Just as a strong foundation supports a home against the elements, a solid base in reading equips our children with the ability to weather the challenges of learning. It is the skill that unlocks the potential in every other subject, from math to science, history to art. By fostering literacy at every stage of education, we give our kids the best chance to succeed, not just academically, but in the stories of their own lives.
Literacy is not just the cornerstone of a child’s education, it’s a central pillar of the AFT’s Real Solutions for Kids and Communities initiative, which also focuses on community schools, experiential learning, mental health and well-being, and new investments in our schools. But why focus on reading? Because it's through stories that we explore worlds beyond our own, experience lives we'll never live, and dream of possibilities yet to come. It is through reading that a child learns to understand not just words, but concepts, emotions and the very fabric of reality itself. Literacy is the tool with which they'll build their future, and our resources are here to give them the best start possible.
Within this community, you'll find everything from lesson plans, interactive activities, professional learning opportunities, research and reading lists—all designed to be easily integrated into the classroom or at home. Each resource is a stepping stone toward confident, enthusiastic readers who see books as sources of joy and knowledge.
Teaching literacy matters because, through reading, we're not just teaching students to decode symbols on a page—we're helping them to understand and interact with the world around them. Our resources are here to ensure that all children, regardless of background or ability, have access to the literacy education they deserve.
Join us. Dive into the conversation in our forums, share your experiences, and learn from others. Together, we can open the book on a brighter future for all our children.