By Read More Maryland
First Lady Dawn Moore, on Mar. 2, launched the #ReadMoreMaryland campaign, a statewide literacy campaign that aims to inspire Maryland students to read. In partnership with the Governor’s Office for Children and the Maryland State Department of Education, the campaign reinforces the Moore-Miller Administration’s commitment to education and advancing literacy among our Maryland students.
“Reading opens doors, builds confidence and helps all of us dream bigger,” said First Lady Dawn Moore. “While Maryland is quickly becoming a national leader in literacy—jumping twenty slots in national rankings in just two years—we know there is still work to be done. Our administration remains committed to making Maryland schools the best in the nation, and we know it’s going to take all of us to ensure every child in Maryland has the tools to succeed.”
During the month of March, the first lady is inviting Marylanders to share photos and videos on social media reading with a loved one, using the hashtag #ReadMoreMaryland—and tagging three more Marylanders to join in. At the conclusion of the campaign, five young Marylanders and their families will be invited to Annapolis to show off their book to First Lady Moore.
“When you read for knowledge and enjoyment, you lay the groundwork for lifelong learning,” said State Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carey M. Wright. “The Maryland State Department of Education is proud to be a partner in #ReadMoreMaryland as we continue building strong readers and learners in every school throughout our great state. Our goal is to help every child develop skills that prepare them for higher education, the workplace and life.”
Since taking office, the Moore-Miller Administration has invested record funding in Maryland’s K-12 education system. In the last two years, Maryland has seen reading scores increase in nearly every grade—moving from 40th to 20th in the nation for literacy. The state has also seen graduation rates rise and teacher vacancy rates cut in half. In January, the governor announced a record $10.2 billion investment in public schools as part of his Fiscal Year 2027 budget proposal—which includes bringing literacy and math coaches to provide direct, in-classroom support for teachers to boost student achievement and educator retention.
“Literacy is the foundation of a child’s success—which is why the Moore-Miller Administration is making record investments in public education to improve reading outcomes across the state,” said Governor’s Office for Children Special Secretary Carmel Martin. “To continue the progress we’ve made we must deliver support where it’s needed most and close literacy gaps for boys, children of color, and children living in poverty. The administration will continue to follow the data and implement strategic solutions to ensure every child in Maryland receives a world-class education.”
The campaign invites Marylanders across the state to participate, placing a special emphasis on engaging boys and young men. Boys in the state of Maryland trail girls in English Language Arts proficiency by nearly 10 points across all grade levels. To effectively reach all Marylanders, including young men and boys, the campaign will partner with Maryland Public Libraries, elected leaders across the state, social media influencers and community-based organizations.
To watch and share the First Lady Moore’s #ReadMoreMaryland campaign launch video, click here.