#98: Literacy is a Human Right with Dr. Tanji Reed Marshall
What If Teaching Reading Isn’t Just About Skills—But About Dignity?
As teachers, we talk a lot about the “how” of reading—how to teach phonemic awareness, how to build fluency, how to get through the curriculum.
But what if we zoomed out and asked a deeper question:
Who are we teaching reading for—and what does it mean when we don’t get it right?
In this powerful episode, I’m joined by Dr. Tangi Reed Marshall, a nationally recognized educator and thought leader who challenges us to reframe reading instruction not just as an academic goal, but as a human right every child deserves to access.
We talk about what happens when students don’t see themselves in the stories we share, when a curriculum doesn’t reflect their reality, or when unconscious beliefs limit who we expect to succeed.
If you’ve been craving a conversation that goes beyond checklists—and gets to the heart of why we do this work—you’re in the right place.
Why We Must See Literacy as a Human Right
When we view literacy as a human right, everything shifts. It’s no longer just about teaching to the standards—it’s about ensuring access, opportunity, and agency for every learner.
Dr. Tangi reminds us:
“When we deny kids the chance to read well, we’re not just limiting their academic success. We’re limiting their lives.”
That means:
- Every child has the right to instruction that works for them—not just the majority.
- Every child deserves to see their culture, identity, and voice represented in the literacy block.
- Every child should be surrounded by adults who believe they are capable—not just compliant.
Three Questions to Start Shifting Your Practice
This isn’t about guilt. It’s about growing. Dr. Tangi gives us a starting point: get curious before you get overwhelmed. These three questions can spark real, reflective change:
1. Whose needs are consistently met in my classroom—and whose are not?
Look beyond your data charts. Who’s excited during reading time? Who’s withdrawn? Who’s always “off-task”—or maybe just trying to survive a system that doesn’t see them?
2. What messages are my materials sending—intentionally or not?
Are students seeing characters who look like them? Names that reflect their families? Problems and joys that feel familiar? If not, it’s time to widen the lens.
3. What beliefs am I holding onto—about what “success” looks like?
Is success only neat handwriting and quiet compliance? Or is it risk-taking, persistence, and growth? Dr. Tangi challenges us to look inward—not for shame, but for clarity.
In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
- What it really means to center all learners in your reading block
- How to recognize the invisible barriers some students face
- Why representation in books and materials isn’t “extra”—it’s essential
- How to start making changes without needing a new curriculum or district initiative
- Encouragement to keep growing—without guilt or perfectionism
Bringing It All Together
It’s easy to feel like we have to choose: standards or students. Science of reading or identity. Curriculum fidelity or flexibility.
But what if that’s a false choice?
As Dr. Tangi reminds us, you can teach foundational skills and make space for real humanity in your classroom. You can follow best practices and ask better questions. You can meet kids where they are and believe in where they’re going.
Because teaching kids to read isn’t just a job.
It’s a calling.
And literacy isn’t just content. It’s a right.
Want More Support? Join The Science of Reading Formula
If you’re ready to teach in a way that’s rooted in both research and respect, we’re here for you.
👉 Join The Science of Reading Formula
Inside, you’ll find coaching, community, and practical tools designed specifically for K–2 teachers who care about doing this work well—and doing it with heart.
LINKS
Dr. Tanji Reed Marshall ‘s website // on LinkedIn // on X (formerly Twitter)
Become a Science of Reading Formula member!
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