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As an educator deeply invested in literacy and mathematics, I find it essential to reflect on the vital role reading plays in shaping our society. Reading is not just a skill; it’s a gateway to imagination, understanding, and critical thinking. It empowers us to question the status quo, envision new possibilities, and develop the analytical skills needed to navigate an increasingly complex world. Yet, when reading becomes a chore rather than a joyful endeavor, we must confront the wider implications: declining literacy rates represent not just an educational crisis but an economic, social, and democratic challenge.

Educators worldwide have been sounding the alarm about the deterioration of reading proficiency, and the evidence is alarming. International assessments over the last decade have shown a troubling trend: reading performance in many education systems has stagnated or declined, particularly after the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The OECD warns that foundational literacy skills among both students and adults are at risk, and UNESCO continues to point to significant gaps in reading proficiency, even as access to education improves.

While it can be tempting to point fingers at specific causes—smartphones, social media, the pandemic’s upheaval, or educational methodologies—the truth is far more nuanced. Declining literacy is a consequence of various factors that have quietly woven themselves into the fabric of our lives over time.

In my experience, one of the most significant shifts we face is the way people consume information. With the rise of short videos, endless scrolling, and bite-sized content, our collective attention spans have dwindled. Reading a lengthy article now requires concentration, patience, and critical reflection—qualities that consistently clash with the barrage of notifications and instant information we receive from our devices. While many young people spend hours engaged with digital content, much of that time is not devoted to sustained reading, leading to a disconnection from the immersive experience that a well-written text can provide.

Consider reading as a form of exercise for the mind. The more we practice, the stronger we become—when we neglect it, we lose our proficiency. Today, literacy encompasses far more than the mere ability to decode words. Modern readers must evaluate sources, discern fact from opinion, identify misinformation, and synthesize multiple perspectives. These are essential skills for navigating an age dominated by artificial intelligence and rampant digital misinformation. In fact, the OECD has redefined reading literacy to encompass understanding, evaluating, reflecting on, and engaging with texts across both print and digital platforms.

However, schools alone cannot shoulder the weight of this challenge. Families play an indispensable role as a child’s first teachers of literacy. The importance of nurturing a reading culture at home cannot be overstated. Children surrounded by books, bedtime stories, and engaging conversations are more likely to develop strong reading habits. Reading culture begins long before a child steps into a kindergarten classroom, yet many families face obstacles that hinder this nurturing environment.

Consider the challenges that many parents confront today. Juggling multiple jobs can leave little to no time for shared reading experiences. The expense of books or their inaccessibility can also deter families from cultivating rich literary environments. Furthermore, in communities where libraries remain underfunded, the resources to encourage literacy are woefully lacking. In many homes, the allure of smartphones and television often overshadows the benefits of reading, creating additional barriers to fostering a love of literature.

Consequently, schools end up inheriting these disparities. Teachers strive tirelessly to help those who struggle with reading. Yet, the obstacles they face—overcrowded classrooms, limited time for personalized intervention, and the pressures of standardized testing—often hinder their best efforts. Many educators express frustration as they observe that while students may be proficient in decoding words, they frequently grapple with comprehension. The ability to infer meaning, engage with complex texts, and sustain attention throughout an entire chapter becomes elusive for many.

Equally pressing is the issue of motivation. Children rarely become lifelong readers merely by checking off assignments or facing endless worksheets. The spark that ignites a child’s love for reading often comes from seeing their interests reflected in the books they encounter. A young reader fascinated by basketball might eagerly explore player bios, while another captivated by science fiction could immerse themselves in a thrilling novel that adults might dismiss as trivial. Reading habits flourish from enjoyment before cultivating into deeper academic pursuits. Unfortunately, educational systems all too often emphasize measurable outcomes over fostering a genuine love for reading.

Adding to the complexity is the growing influence of artificial intelligence on our reading habits. AI technologies are sophisticated tools capable of summarizing texts, answering questions, and even generating essays in mere seconds. When used judiciously, AI can support learning, particularly for struggling readers. However, when misused, these technologies risk undermining the cognitive effort necessary for developing deep comprehension skills. If students become reliant on AI to interpret texts they have never truly engaged with, they may find themselves completing assignments while their reading comprehension skills continue to falter.

While technology is not inherently detrimental to literacy, the challenge lies in striking the right balance. How can we ensure that technology complements rather than replaces the profound cognitive processes involved in reading? It’s crucial to guide students in using these digital tools as enhancers of their learning experience rather than shortcuts that diminish their engagement with literature.

So, what does this mean for us as educators, parents, and community members? It means we must be proactive in fostering an environment where reading is seen as a valued and enjoyable activity. Schools and homes must collaborate to create a culture of literacy that goes beyond mere academic achievement. We must advocate for resources that make books accessible to all children, ensuring that every child grows up in an environment rich with literature.

Parents can set aside time each day to read aloud with their children, allowing them to experience the magic of storytelling while cultivating an enduring love for reading. In doing so, they lay the groundwork for developing thoughtful, engaged, and literate citizens.

Moreover, we must strive to create classrooms where student interests guide reading selections. By introducing students to literature that resonates with their lives and passions, we can ignite their curiosity and creativity, fostering a lasting relationship with reading.

Lastly, let’s remind ourselves that reading, much like any other skill, requires practice and nurturing. Together, we can ensure that the next generation not only reads but also thinks critically and creatively, laying the groundwork for a society that thrives on literacy and informed engagement. A society that reads is ultimately the society that thinks, questions, and creates—and that is a vision worth striving for.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR – Johjoh Demol Jenae is a Mathematics and literacy teacher at Bronx International High School, a teacher trainer and curriculum writer, and a graduate with a Doctor of Philosophy in Development Administration, a Doctor of Education in Educational Management, and a Post-Doctorate in Strategic Management and Leadership.