BOULDER, CO (May 15, 2025)—In this month's episode of NEPC Talks Education, Christopher Saldaña discusses the evolving landscape of reading instruction, the science of reading movement, and its policy implications with University of Wisconsin-Madison Education Policy professor Elena Aydarova. Her scholarship focuses on the interactions between educational policy, advocacy, and social inequality.

Aydarova's research has identified concerning trends associated with the "Science of Reading" (SOR) movement. She distinguishes between the lowercase "science of reading," which refers to scientific studies conducted by cognitive psychologists and neuroscientists, and the uppercase "Science of Reading" (SOR), which she describes as a movement often driven by businesses, corporations, and EdTech companies primarily seeking to bolster profits.

Aydarova and Saldaña discuss how SOR-related legislation has been passed in 39 states. These statutes have led to increased privatization, standardization, and centralization of reading instruction. In her research Aydarova found that these policies have resulted in mandated assessments administered as early as kindergarten, prescribed interventions often delivered through proprietary platforms, and highly scripted curricula that districts must purchase—sometimes at significant cost to already underfunded schools.

Aydarova notes that the organizations promoting SOR legislation—including the Foundation for Excellence in Education and the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC)—are also involved in promoting vouchers, charter schools, and alternative routes to teaching, suggesting these bills are part of a broader privatization agenda. She also highlights connections between the SOR movement and book banning efforts, noting that many organizations support both efforts.

Aydarova recommends that policymakers, educators, and parents critically evaluate the stories and emotions strategically deployed in this debate, examine the evidence behind proposed reforms, and work to maintain participatory democracy where all voices—not just the loudest—are heard in educational decision-making. She emphasizes the importance of ensuring teachers have respect, autonomy, and a voice in policy processes.

A new NEPC Talks Education podcast episode, hosted by Christopher Saldaña, will be released each month from September through May. 

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