Gov. Walker: Read for the Future

The state has partnered with the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association to produce and distribute brief radio address once a week.  Audio files and a written transcript of this radio address can be accessed on http://www.wi-broadcasters.org and http://walker.wi.gov/section.asp?linkid=1761&locid=177.  To download an mp3 file you can visit http://walker.wi.gov/section.asp?linkid=1761&locid=177, right click the radio address link and click “save link as.”

Here is the transcript from this Thursday’s radio address, which is titled Read for the Future:

Hi, this is Scott Walker

 From the time a child is born until third grade, they learn to read. From fourth grade on, they use their reading skills to learn.

Studies show that students are much more likely to graduate if they are reading at or above grade level by the time they leave elementary school. We want every kid in this state reading at that level or better.

With this in mind, I started a Read to Lead initiative early in 2011 and asked Superintendent of Schools Tony Evers to join me. We put together a diverse group of leaders from across the state. Teachers, parents, advocates, foundations and lawmakers from both parties worked for months.

 This week, we are announcing a series of reforms to improve early childhood development, enhance teacher training, invoke parental involvement and replicate successful reading programs across Wisconsin.

 Watch for more information on Read to Lead in the days to come.