Do We Really Put Children First

I wrote Leaving Johnny Behind mainly because of my frustrations with the conventional wisdom related to reading instruction, especially as it pertained to the needs of poor and minorities, dyslexics, English Language Learners, and those with handicapping conditions.

One of the things I learned during the course of my research was that diagnosticians are rarely able to show any evidence of neurological dysfunction for the vast majority of children they label as LD. In fact, the term Learning Disability did not exist prior to the 1960's and is probably more a function of our teaching methods than it is of a child's ability to learn.

The research reveals a very unifying message, but unfortunately, the obstinacy of a few very influential people prevents it from being heard and practiced to the extent necessary to reach those who need us the most. This results in some very dire consequences for many of our children. That is truly an injustice.

I look forward to joining forces with you to address these issues and doing everything possible to promote early literacy for all children.