Reading opens worlds — and NYC schools are finally getting it right

New York City public schools are doing something rare and important: Sticking with a good idea long enough to make it work.

Two years ago, toward the end of the 2022-23 academic year, Mayor Adams launched “NYC Reads,” a long-overdue course correction mandating the use of evidence-based, phonics-driven reading programs in every public elementary school in the city.

On Monday, he expanded the initiative to middle schools.

It’s an unambiguous win for children and families, and one that deserves support, patience and — most of all — permanence.

Reading is the single most important thing New York City’s schools need to get right.

In an age of rampant screen time, when a disproportionate share of the city’s public-school students grow up in low-income homes or where English isn’t the primary language, the stakes are even higher.

There is simply no educational equity, no opportunity and no meaningful learning without skilled and proficient reading.

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