Investing in Statewide Coaching Model to Boost Early Literacy

The Mississippi Miracle: Transforming Education and Achieving Literacy Gains

Ten years ago, Mississippi found itself in a dire situation when it came to fourth-grade reading achievement. The state was ranked second-lowest in the nation, painting a bleak picture for its education system. However, through a combination of targeted efforts and investments in quality professional development, Mississippi experienced a remarkable transformation. Today, the state’s fourth graders rank 21st in the nation for reading achievement, surpassing the national average. This incredible progress, often referred to as the “Mississippi Miracle,” serves as a testament to the power of focused and effective interventions in early literacy.