MoProBono Fall 2018 Newsletter

11 MoProBono Fall 2018 In California, a team led by Michael Jacobs and Jack Londen is advancing a case that aims to ensure equal access to literacy for all students in the Golden State. The case, Ella T. v. State of California , argues for recognizing a constitutional right to literacy for the state’s schoolchildren. Working with the pro bono law firm Public Counsel, our team seeks to level the playing field in California’s primary and secondary educational system so children acquire the basic tools of reading and writing no matter their race, income level, or zip code. In July 2018, Los Angeles Judge Yvette Palazuelos denied the State of California’s motion to dismiss the case, allowing it to proceed to trial. This landmark case demands that the State of California ensure that all students enjoy the benefits of the following: • evidence-based literacy instruction at the elementary and secondary level; • a stable, supported, and appropriately trained teaching staff; • opportunities for their parents and families to engage in students’ literacy education; and • school conditions that promote readiness for learning. This case stands as a corollary to Gary B. v. Snyder , the first federal case seeking to recognize a right to literacy under the U.S. Constitution. CONTINUED ADVOCACY FOR LITERACY RIGHTS IN CALIFORNIA