10 Facts About the READ ACT (S. 623)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a global economy, it benefits everyone to ensure that all children have access to a quality education. When children are equipped with basic skills including reading, writing, science, and math, it creates a bright future for the world. The goal of the READ Act is to provide universal basic education and improve the quality of that education for all boys and girls. Here are 10 facts about the READ Act (S. 623):

1. READ Act stands for Reinforcing Education Accountability in Development Act.
2. The READ Act is sponsored by Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) and co-sponsored by Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D -IL), Sen. Christopher A. Coons (D-DE), Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV).
3. The U.S. House of Representatives passed the READ Act on January 24 — only 24 hours after it was introduced.
4. The READ Act provides access to education for some of the 263 million children who are not in school or who do not have access to education because of war or political instability.
5. The READ Act will help to develop and implement a strategy that provides improved educational opportunities.
6. The act addresses barriers to school attendance and completion such as conflict and political instability.
7. The act aims to help countries to strengthen the education systems increasing capacity and promoting long-term sustainability
8. The act ensures that U.S. contributions are utilized more effectively and efficiently to achieve the greatest impact. Creates a structure that prioritizes and directs aid to those in the greatest need.
9. The act creates the position of “Senior Coordinator” at USAID. The Senior Coordinator will be responsible for developing, implementing, and coordinating U.S. basic education programs.
10. The act creates a framework that improves accountability and transparency of basic education programs so U.S. Congress and citizens can see how funds are used and how those funds are helping.

The benefits of education are clear. Still, more needs to be done to ensure that girls and boys living in areas affected by war and political instability receive a quality education. These 10 facts about the READ Act show a few of the strategies the U.S. is trying to implement to make sure universal education is a reality for all children.

– Mary Barringer

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