Ontario's literacy crisis demands a holistic approach: investing in students, educators, and infrastructure
Original framing: “To improve literacy, Ontario should invest in students and educators” — The Conversation - Global
The literacy crisis in Ontario is part of a broader pattern of education policy failures, dating back to the neoliberal reforms of the 1990s. These reforms prioritized market-driven solutions over evidence-based approaches, leading to a decline in teacher morale and student outcomes.
The literacy crisis in Ontario is a complex issue that requires a holistic approach.
By investing in education infrastructure, developing culturally responsive literacy programs, addressing teacher burnout and support, and fostering a holistic understanding of literacy, Ontario can develop more effective solutions to the literacy crisis. This requires a systemic shift in how education is funded and supported, as well as a recognition of the importance of teacher well-being and student success. By centering the perspectives and experiences of marginalized students, including Indigenous and racialized communities, Ontario can develop more inclusive and culturally responsive education policies.