Sold a Story 13: The List
Mar 6, 2025
In a thought-provoking conversation, Christopher Peake, a co-reporter on the Sold a Story series and education policy expert, dives deep into Ohio's controversial reading curriculum laws. They discuss how Steubenville, once a model of reading success, faces challenges from new 'science of reading' lists. Peake reveals the surprising influence of EdReports on district choices and the complexities of balancing curriculum standards with the realities of implementation. The episode sheds light on the critical factors that impact effective reading instruction.
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EdReports Reviews Drive State Approval
- Many states used EdReports as a proxy for "science of reading" approval, so programs not reviewed by EdReports were often excluded.
- Success for All initially missed most state lists despite strong evidence because it lacked EdReports reviews.
Steubenville's Longstanding Confidence
- Steubenville trusted Success for All after 25 years and school leaders initially weren't worried about the new Ohio law.
- Teachers and administrators expressed confidence their district would remain strong even if forced to change.
Program Churn Undermines Longevity
- Program churn is common; many districts adopt a program with one leader and drop it with the next.
- Success for All saw over 150 adoptions that later ended, often due to leadership or funding changes.