Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Neilson applauds literacy advocates working to endorse literacy programs across the state

Neilson applauds literacy advocates working to endorse literacy programs across the state

State Rep. Ed Neilson, D-Phila., today thanked the Pennsylvania Literacy Coalition, school and district leaders, literacy advocates, and lawmakers from across the commonwealth for reaffirming their commitment to ensuring that every child has access to quality, evidence-based literacy programs.

Since beginning his career in public service, Neilson has worked on various initiatives to highlight the importance of literacy programs in Pennsylvania.

In 2014, Neilson’s legislation to create a dyslexia screening pilot program was signed into law by Gov. Tom Corbett, making it the first program of its kind in the commonwealth. In 2020, a federal bill modeled after this program was introduced in the U.S. Congress.

“Every child in the commonwealth deserves to have a strong educational foundation that leads to a secure and successful future. That foundation is literacy. With literacy programs, children aren’t just learning new words; they are learning comprehension and critical thinking skills. Reading introduces them to new concepts, enhances creativity, and encourages them to think outside the box,” Neilson said.