Just Read, Florida!

Just Read, Florida! is the statewide reading initiative that prioritizes reading in Florida's public schools and among all the community groups and volunteer organizations that support them. Just Read, Florida! is based on the latest reading research that includes emphasis on phonemic awareness (knowing that words are made up of sounds), phonics (the link between sounds and letters), vocabulary (what words mean and how to say them), fluency (the ability to read words accurately and quickly), and comprehension (the ability to understand what you read). On September 7, 2001, Governor Jeb Bush signed Executive Order 01-260 (PDF) designating Just Read, Florida! as a comprehensive and coordinated reading initiative.

Florida Statute 1001.215 Charged with establishing reading as a core value in this state, Just Read, Florida! was launched with the unequivocal goal of every child being able to read at or above grade. With that goal in mind, Just Read, Florida! focuses on three main components; student success, educator quality and parent support.