Positions and programs: how are they changing the face of literacy instruction?

Shane R. Emerson and Amber M. Kaufman review an impressive and convincing body of scientific research on the inefficacy of both grade retention and social promotion to solve the problem of school failure. Margie Bell, an International Reading Association staff member in Washington, D.C., compiled a report on the status of Reading First state grants so readers can be more informed and be presented with another viewpoint about this major U.S. legislation. [...]in "Perspectives on Reading Instruction: Responses From Professional Educators," Ann M. Duffy and 11 experienced K-12 educators share some of the recent misconceptions and overgeneralizations being made about reading instruction in the United States and offer advice to teachers on how to address this misinformation to set the record straight in their communities.