The Literacy Crisis vs. Saint Louis Public Schools’ Strategic Values: A System Out of Alignment

Saint Louis Public Schools (SLPS) are committed to strategic values emphasizing quality education, strong partnerships, and student success. Yet, the district’s persistent literacy crisis tells a different story—where students are not being set up for long-term achievement, teachers are not adequately supported, and families are ignored when they advocate for real change. If SLPS truly wants to uphold its core values, it must confront the harsh reality that these principles are not reflected in outcomes. The current system is failing to deliver on its promises, and unless we align words with actions, our children will continue to fall through the cracks.

1. Highly Effective & Educated Teachers—But Underpaid and Undervalued

SLPS emphasizes the importance of highly effective and well-educated teachers. But how can we attract and retain top-tier educators when salaries remain uncompetitive, classrooms lack resources, and teachers are overburdened with administrative tasks instead of being empowered to focus on instruction? We must stop treating teachers like expendable workers and start paying them what they’re worth. If we want the best for our children, we must invest in the best educators and ensure they have the tools to teach effectively.

2. Authentic Family & Community Partnership—But No Real Collaboration

SLPS claims to value authentic partnerships with families and communities, yet time and again, parents and organizations that offer real solutions are dismissed, ignored, or cut out of the conversation. Instead of fostering relationships with those working to improve literacy, SLPS leadership often engages in performative engagement—holding town halls and listening sessions with no real action taken afterward. A true partnership means valuing the voices of parents and community organizations ready to help, not shutting them out or cutting off meaningful collaborations.

3. Joyful & Engaged Students—But They Can’t Read

Education should be engaging, but SLPS is not a daycare but a learning institution. If students are struggling to read, they are not genuinely engaged in their education. Joy comes from confidence and mastery, not from being passed along through a system that does not equip them with fundamental skills. If we want engaged learners, we must prioritize reading proficiency, ensuring that every child leaves elementary school with the ability to read at or above grade level.

4. Equitable & Multiple Sources of Data—But Little Accountability for Literacy Outcomes

SLPS talks about using multiple data sources to drive equitable decision-making, yet literacy rates remain stagnant, and accountability is weak. If data is indeedtruly being used to inform policies, where is the urgency to implement literacy interventions that have been proven to work? Where is the accountability for schools that continuously fail to meet reading benchmarks? Data without action is meaningless.

5. Personalized Supports & Innovative Pathways—But No Real Literacy Solutions

SLPS claims to offer personalized support, but struggling readers remain behind without the necessary interventions. Innovation should mean investing in structured literacy programs, one-on-one tutoring, and support for students with dyslexia and other reading challenges. Instead, too many children are placed in classrooms where they are expected to “catch up” without a tailored approach. If we are serious about innovation, literacy must be at the forefront of these efforts.

6. College & Career Readiness—But Graduating Students Who Can’t Read

The most glaring contradiction is the idea that SLPS is preparing students for college and careers when so many graduate without basic literacy skills. If a student cannot read fluently, how can they be expected to succeed in higher education or the workforce? The system sets them up for failure by allowing them to move through grade levels without the necessary foundation. If we want genuinely college-ready students, literacy must be the priority from day one.

Aligning Strategy with Reality

SLPS leadership must look at the gap between their strategic values and the actual experiences of students, teachers, and families. This means:

• Paying teachers competitive salaries to attract and retain talent.

• Listen to and work with parents and community organizations instead of dismissing them.

• Prioritizing literacy at all grade levels with structured interventions and accountability.

• Using data to drive real change, not just as a talking point.

• Ensuring students graduate with the necessary skills they need, not just a diploma.

The literacy crisis in Saint Louis is not an abstract issue—it directly contradicts everything SLPS claims to stand for. If we truly want to align values with outcomes, we must stop making excuses and start making changes. Our children’s futures depend on it. Co  

Actionable Steps to Address the Literacy Crisis and Align SLPS’s Strategic Values with Outcomes:

• Advocate for Competitive Teacher Salaries:

• Push for budget reallocations or increased funding to ensure teachers receive salaries that reflect their expertise and dedication.

• Enhance Teacher Support and Resources:

• Campaign for reduced administrative burdens and improved classroom resources so teachers can focus on instruction and innovation.

• Foster Genuine Family and Community Partnerships:

• Establish advisory boards and regular forums that empower parents and community organizations to have a meaningful voice in decision-making.

• Implement Evidence-Based Literacy Programs:

• Introduce structured literacy interventions, early reading programs, and tailored support for students struggling with fundamental reading skills.

• Hold Schools Accountable with Data-Driven Policies:

• Utilize comprehensive data to set clear literacy benchmarks, monitor progress, and enforce accountability measures for failing schools that fall short.

• Promote Personalized Learning Supports:

• Advocate for one-on-one tutoring, individualized education plans, and specialized interventions for students with learning challenges.

• Prioritize Early Literacy for Long-Term Success:

• Focus on ensuring every child achieves reading proficiency by the end of elementary school, laying the foundation for college and career readiness.

• Engage Stakeholders Through Collaborative Outreach:

• Mobilize educators, community leaders, and local influencers in joint marketing campaigns and public forums to raise awareness and support for literacy initiatives.

• Utilize Media to Amplify the Message:

• Leverage social media, local news outlets, and community events to spotlight the gap between SLPS’s strategic values and actual outcomes, pressuring for real change.

• Drive Policy Change Through Continuous Advocacy:

• Form coalitions with parents, educators, and community organizations to persistently demand that SLPS align its policies and practices with its stated mission and values.