Philanthropists and Funders as the Engine of the Science of Reading Reform Movement

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Abstract

Since 2013, 39 states have introduced science of reading (SOR) reforms supported by policy networks and educational businesses. The involvement of funders and donors, however, has so far been overlooked. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the role of philanthropic organizations in the SOR reform movement. Grounded in anthropology of policy, this study draws on interview data, IRS 990 forms, and annual reports to examine how philanthropies push for the adoption of specific reform measures and policy messages. It documents how philanthropic organizations pursue grantees to push SOR reforms forward but use secrecy to cover their involvement. The significance of this study lies in elucidating how donors influence both SOR reform spread and public perceptions of them.

Author

• Elena Aydarova, University of Wisconsin - Madison