Illiteracy Among Graduates Down

TALLAHASSEE, FL - A report issued today by the Department of Education reveals that the expected illiteracy rate among high school graduates will decline significantly this year. This marks the first time in several decades that this benchmark has fallen in two consecutive years. The expected illiteracy rate of 32% is down from 33% last year and 34% the previous year.

"We're quite pleased with this accomplishment." said Education Commissioner Eric Smith. "We hope to continue this downward trend into the future."

Education experts credit the progress to decisive action taken when illiteracy rates peaked two years ago. Officials responded with the creation of special programs to teach students how to read and write, along with the construction of special rooms to house books and enhance the instruction experience.

"These programs are really cutting-edge." said Myron Flockley, professor of Innovative Education at Howyflyl University. "The results speak for themselves. The real challenge is finding the political will to continue funding." The cost of continuing the programs is estimated at an additional $22,000 per student annually.

Smith says discontinuing the special programs is "not an option". "We're talking about our children's education here." he said. "I'm told that with these special programs, we can virtually wipe out illiteracy among our graduates in about twelve years."

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