Foundational literacy and numeracy are essential for success in school and beyond. Yet millions of children do not attain foundational literacy and numeracy at the right time, and—without the basics of reading, writing, and math—they fall further and further behind, with some children losing out on education altogether. Though often framed as a learning crisis, this is a systems crisis—teachers, school leaders, families, and communities are not being given what they need to support foundational literacy and numeracy.

Many organizations are working to improve foundational literacy and numeracy (FLN), primarily through supporting teachers. GSL believes these efforts can be strengthened by supporting school leaders, too. We have reviewed the literature and spoken with school leaders, education experts, and leaders of established FLN programs to understand their perspectives on improving foundational learning. We have created Lead FLN by integrating these perspectives with knowledge of effective school leadership and management strategies that are grounded in research. 

Our work builds on the structured pedagogy approach outlined in the Science of Teaching. Lead FLN is produced by Global School Leaders and generously funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.