The document discusses the literacy crisis facing American adolescents, with fewer than one third of eighth graders reading at a proficient level according to national assessments. Multiple statistics are provided showing that millions of students in grades 4-12 read below grade level, limiting their ability to succeed in high school, college, and careers. The document argues that greater investment is needed in reading and writing instruction for older students in order to help struggling readers catch up and avoid squandering resources spent on early literacy education.