Three in five Lehigh Valley third graders aren’t reading on grade level.
Being able to read on grade level is one of the most important indicators of future life success. In fact, when a child is reading on grade level by the end of third grade, they are up to 13 times more likely to graduate high school on-time and prepared for life, college or career. That’s because third grade is that pivotal moment when children transition from learning how to read, to reading to learn.
Your United Way advances grade-level reading by investing in and advocating for:
- Early childhood education
- Community Schools
- Summer learning
- Social-emotional wellness
- High-quality literacy instruction
Lehigh Valley Reads
Transforming Readers into Leaders
Lehigh Valley Reads, powered by United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, is our region’s third grade reading campaign and nationally recognized for advancing early school success. Its mission is to ensure all Lehigh Valley students are reading on grade level by the end of third grade.
Through collaboration with many partners, the campaign takes a collective impact approach and focuses on key areas such as early childhood education, everyday attendance and summer learning.
When educators are equipped with the Science of Reading practices and can instruct accordingly, students reading proficiency increases.
Lehigh Valley Reads harnesses the collective power of several successful coalitions such as the Lehigh Valley Summer Learning Coalition, Early Childhood Coalition, Resilient Lehigh Valley, Community Schools Network and the Challenge 5 Attendance Coalition.
“I see the impact of United Way every day through my students. With the funding that’s provided for resources for the students and their families, every need they have is met.”
Laura Keding
Teacher in the Bethlehem Area School District
Talk Read Sing inspires families to help children develop strong language skills through everyday interactions.
United Way Community Schools remove barriers to education, so students, families and communities can thrive.
Summer learning initiatives combine fun and learning so our children continue to thrive even when school’s out.
In the News
United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and Partners Host a Webinar to Discuss the Issue of Chronic Absenteeism in Schools
United Way’s webinar highlights the concerning rise in chronic absenteeism, urging action to improve student engagement and attendance.