Oakland launches literacy program leaders say could boost education, curb crime

OAKLAND MAYOR Barbara Lee was joined by community advocates at the steps of City Hall on Thursday to announce the launch of a child literacy program that leaders hope will improve education outcomes and reduce crime rates. 

The new free citywide initiative Oakland Reads 1234! aims to increase literacy rates in Oakland for students below the age of 6 by providing free online resources, songs for young children to practice the alphabet, and gift cards to parents as an incentive to continuously track their children’s progress.