Second Lady Launches 2025 Reading Challenge to Improve Declining Student Reading Scores

America's second lady, Usha Vance, has launched the highly anticipated "Summer Reading Challenge," an initiative aiming to inspire children nationwide to immerse themselves in books throughout the summer months. In her official letter introducing the program, Vance emphasized the transformative power of reading by stating, "Adventure, imagination, and discovery await – right between the pages of a book."

The challenge, open to students in kindergarten through eighth grade, invites participants to read 12 books of their own choosing between June 1 and September 5. Students are encouraged to document their progress using a reading log provided by the White House. To complete the challenge, each student must record the title, author, completion date, and include a brief reflection about their favorite book out of the twelve they've read.

Nicole Reeves, communications director for the second lady, expressed enthusiasm about the program, underscoring its importance in continuing education outside traditional classroom settings. "It is essential that we encourage our youth to continue learning outside of the classroom, and this challenge provides an excellent opportunity to do so," Reeves remarked.

The need for literacy initiatives like the Summer Reading Challenge is underscored by recent findings from the National Center for Education Statistics, which reported a significant five-point decline in the average reading scores among nine-year-olds since 2020—the largest drop recorded since 1990. Alarmingly, data also indicates that approximately 40% of U.S. students cannot read at a basic level, with nearly 70% of low-income fourth graders falling short of this standard.

Experts highlight that struggling readers often face not just academic hurdles, but also social and emotional challenges. Research shows that regular reading can promote positive mental health outcomes, including reductions in stress and anxiety, further reinforcing the importance of programs that foster literacy skills from an early age.

As an incentive, children who successfully complete the Summer Reading Challenge will be awarded a personalized certificate and a special prize. Additionally, all participants will be entered into a drawing for a unique opportunity to visit Washington, D.C. with a chaperone, adding an exciting element to the educational journey.

With the kick-off of the 2025 Summer Reading Challenge, the second lady encourages families across the country to help their children turn the pages this season, making reading not just a summer activity, but a lifelong habit.