On today's show, Adrian and Ethan discuss the importance of reading and the worsening opportunity gap.

Two weeks ago, we talked about the importance of literacy for individuals, communities and societies. Today, we continue our discussion. Research has shown that children who are motivated and spend more time reading do better in school.

Sadly, 1 in 4 children in America grow up without learning how to read. Students who don't read proficiently by the 3rd grade are 4 times likelier to drop out of school.

Students attending high-poverty schools received a double dose of setbacks during the pandemic, spending 5.5 more weeks in virtual classes compared to wealthier schools and suffering 50% more achievement loss, the research found.

In a study by Brookings Institution, test-score gaps between students in low-poverty and high-poverty elementary schools grew by approximately 20% in math and 15% in reading.

During the first five years of life, a child’s brain is at its most flexible, making this a critical period for learning and growth. Waiting until kindergarten is too late. Children who enter kindergarten behind are likely to remain behind throughout their educational careers and beyond.