The State of Literacy
The challenge
Across Wisconsin, more than 1.5 million adults qualify for literacy services, and over 50% of adults read below a 6th-grade level (PIACC). 21,000 people in Northeast Wisconsin speak a language other than English at home (U.S. Census Bureau 2023). Nationally, 21% of adults in the U.S.—roughly 43 million people—have difficulty with basic literacy, including reading short texts, following instructions, or comparing information (NCES 2020).
Learning from our community
The State of Literacy Project, an effort led by Fox Valley Literacy through the generosity of the David L. and Rita E. Nelson Family Fund within the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region created a means toward a better understanding of how adults in our region navigate literacy challenges. From April 2025 through August 2025, we gathered data from 804 community members and 37 organizations across Outagamie, Winnebago, Calumet, and Waupaca counties.
The main goals of the State of Literacy Project:
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Learn how people and organizations use literacy in real-life situations
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Understand what barriers exist to accessing or using literacy skills and tools
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Elevate community voices to inform programs and partnerships
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The State of Literacy Project focuses on both immediate and long-term action. In the short-term, our priorities include:
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Expanding flexible learning options
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Reducing daily barriers for learners
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Integrating digital and health literacy into existing classes
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Building on community strengths
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Sparking cross-sector conversations
Long-term strategies call for simplifying school and healthcare communications, fostering literacy-friendly workplaces, and formally linking support services.
Moving forward, success will rely on community-wide engagement. Individuals can support this effort by volunteering, taking or recommending classes, partnering with Fox Valley Literacy, donating, or simply sharing what they’ve learned.
Collective action is key to creating a region where literacy becomes a bridge to independence, confidence, and opportunity for all.
Acknowledgements
State of Literacy was made possible by the David L. and Rita E. Nelson Family Fund within the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region. Thank you to the incredible generosity of our community members who shared your experiences, aspirations, and guidance.
If you have any questions, please feel free to email Brian@foxvalleylit.org. We look forward to sharing the complete State of Literacy Report at the March 4, 2026 Reveal Event!
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