Advancing Literacy in California: Professor Young-Suk Kim’s Leadership and Local Impact

By Sofia Del Fine
December 3, 2025

California is entering a pivotal moment in early reading development, with new statewide policies requiring evidence-based literacy screening for all K–2 students starting this fall. At the center of this work is Professor Young-Suk Kim, who chairs the State Board of Education’s expert panel responsible for selecting the screening tools districts will use. Her leadership helps ensure schools adopt research-backed assessments that accurately identify students’ needs and guide early intervention.

Beyond the state level, Kim is bringing literacy science directly to the community. This fall, she presented to the Orange County Department of Education on the foundations of language and literacy development, helping educators understand and implement practices aligned with the new requirements. She also met with the American Academy of Pediatrics – Orange County Chapter, emphasizing how pediatricians can support early identification of reading challenges and collaborate with families and schools.

Professor Young-Suk Kim presents

Together, these efforts highlight Professor Kim’s commitment to bridging research and practice. Her work is shaping California’s literacy policy while equipping local educators and healthcare professionals with tools that strengthen early reading support for children across the region.