Karl Rectanus, a veteran education executive known for focusing on data and evidence, has taken the helm as CEO of Really Great Reading. His appointment comes at a critical moment for American education, as schools struggle to reverse historic declines in literacy and face increasing pressure to prove that their reading programs actually work.
What Happened
Rectanus, the co-founder and former CEO of LearnPlatform, is stepping into the role with a mandate to focus on execution rather than just adoption. While many districts have rushed to purchase new curriculums labeled as "Science of Reading," Rectanus argues that buying a program is only the first step.
"National reading scores aren’t just declining—they’re declining in ways that should alarm all of us," Rectanus said in a recent interview. He emphasizes that reading is a "gateway skill," noting that students who cannot read fluently struggle in every other subject, from social studies to math.
Under his leadership, Really Great Reading—which offers foundational literacy instruction like Countdown and Blast—plans to double down on helping districts measure specific student outcomes. Rectanus insists that "real evidence" of impact isn't about checking a compliance box on a state mandate, but seeing consistent improvements in student proficiency year over year.
The Bigger Picture
The urgency behind this shift is backed by stark data. According to the 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), national reading scores have failed to recover from pandemic-era lows. The situation is particularly dire for older students; 12th-grade reading scores have dropped to their lowest level ever recorded. Furthermore, one-third of 8th graders are now performing below the "Basic" level, meaning they struggle to grasp the main idea of a text.
In response, state leaders have taken legislative action. A state scan by the Council of Chief State School Officers notes that education leaders are making a concerted effort to ground instruction in the Science of Reading. However, while over 40 states have passed related legislation, experts warn that laws alone do not guarantee success if implementation is poor.
Really Great Reading positions itself as an evidence-based solution in this landscape. The program has earned a "Promising" rating (Tier 3) from Evidence for ESSA, based on independent research showing positive effects for first and second graders. Additionally, the program recently received a Tier I recommendation in Utah for statewide expansion, signaling growing administrative trust in its model.
What This Means for Families
For parents, the distinction between a school having a reading program and that program working is vital. Research shows that early literacy gaps are difficult to close and have long-lasting effects. A study in the UK found that literacy levels at age seven directly impact academic attainment at age 16. Similarly, longitudinal research indicates that effective early interventions can shape a student's entire academic trajectory.
Rectanus's focus on "proving results" suggests a shift where schools will need to show parents more than just a curriculum name. Families should expect schools to provide clear data on whether their child is meeting specific literacy milestones, rather than vague assurances that the school is following the "Science of Reading."
What You Can Do
- Ask for the Data: Don't just ask which program your school uses. Ask to see the data on how it has improved reading scores for students in your child's specific grade level.
- Check for Foundational Skills: For younger children (K-2), ensure the curriculum includes explicit instruction in phonics and phonological awareness, which research identifies as crucial predictors of reading success.
- Monitor Early: If you suspect your child is struggling, do not wait for "things to click" in 3rd grade. Early intervention is the most effective way to prevent long-term deficits.