The Massachusetts 2019 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) Grade 4 reading results showed that nearly one quarter of students scored below basic. Only 45% of students scored proficient or higher on the reading assessment. Moreover, the 2019 scores represent a decline in the percentages of students reading at basic, proficient, or higher levels. Coupled with demonstrable and consistent gaps in academic achievement for students from low-income households, students of color, and other historically disadvantaged student groups, this document examines how the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) is prioritizing improving early literacy proficiency.