Massachusetts Launches $25M Free Early Literacy Tutoring in 272 Schools

Across multiple states, education leaders are emphasizing the critical importance of early literacy and reading independence as students return to school. Massachusetts has launched a $25 million initiative to provide no-cost, high-dosage early literacy tutoring to 272 elementary schools, targeting kindergarten through third grade, particularly first graders, through flexible in-person and virtual formats. Governor Maura Healey and Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll have highlighted the program's goal to equip students with foundational reading skills necessary for long-term academic success, with tutoring providers selected to deliver evidence-based, culturally sustaining instruction. Local pilot programs, such as those at Lowell's McAuliffe and Lincoln Elementary Schools, have demonstrated significant reading improvements through daily, short, personalized online tutoring sessions based on the Science of Reading. Education advocates also stress fostering independence in students by incorporating reading into daily activities and encouraging self-sufficiency to prepare children for the school year. These combined efforts reflect a broad commitment to strengthening early literacy as a foundation for academic achievement and social-emotional learning.