CLEVELAND — Gov. Mike DeWine announced the ReadOhio initiative Thursday, an effort to boost literacy skills for everyone of all ages. 

DeWine said it also includes implementing curriculum that's aligned with the science of reading for K-12 schools. DeWine said the science of reading involves decades of research showing the science behind learning to read and the skills that need to be taught to help do it efficiently. 

“With 40% of Ohio third graders not proficient in reading, we need to seriously look at how we are teaching reading in the state because reading is fundamental to future success,” said DeWine in a press release. “Our ReadOhio initiative will encompass all of our efforts to improve literacy skills of Ohioans of every age, from early childhood throughout adulthood because it’s never too early or too late to learn to read or enhance your skills.”

Parts of the ReadOhio initiative include:

• A free digital resource called "Read It Again!" for early childhood educators
• An online resource that'll be available this fall that gives caregivers and parents tips on how to help grow children's literacy skills
• Focus on expanding the Dolly Parton Imagination Library of Ohio, a program that gives a free book to children in Ohio from when they're born to age 5

“Ohio is committed to raising literacy achievement for all learners,” said Chris Woolard, interim superintendent of public instruction, in a press release. “Whether a district or school is just getting started or already implementing the science of reading, we have developed multiple resources that school leaders, teachers, and families can use as they start the new school year.”

More details on the ReadOhio initiative can be found on the governor's website.