The Big Lift
The Big Lift is a bold collective impact effort that helps San Mateo County students achieve reading proficiency by the end of third grade.
We are dedicated to fostering collaboration and unifying stakeholders who share a common commitment–advancing third-grade literacy in San Mateo County.
Third grade literacy is a critical indicator for future learning and success. Children who can read proficiently by the end of third grade are more likely to thrive in school and beyond. Every child in San Mateo County deserves that strong foundation.
Serving San Mateo County
The Big Lift partners with school districts to support evidence-based language and literacy development from preschool through third grade. We prioritize supporting the communities and schools that need it the most.
Resources for Parents
Children’s language and literacy development begins when they’re born. Families are their children’s first and most important teachers.
We developed Let’s Read San Mateo County to give families and caregivers tools to help support their children’s language and literacy development. Find information on what children are learning at each age, and effective strategies to practice at home.
Featured News
New Video Highlights The Big Lift’s Approach
Hot off the press–get to know The Big Lift in our newest video! Research demonstrates a direct correlation between early literacy and later school and life outcomes. The Big Lift is San Mateo County’s answer to ensure that children in
Sold a Story: Understanding the Story Behind the Science of Reading
Decades of research show that there are specific, evidence-based skills that children can learn that help them become successful readers. Taken together, this research and the teaching strategies informed by it are called “the science of reading.” Despite the many
Telemundo Feature: Condado San Mateo ofrece herramienta en español para fomentar la lectura en niños
The Big Lift is proud to have our new website for families, Let’s Read San Mateo County, featured by Telemundo! Watch the segment!
Press Release: A New Tool Helps Families Build Reading Skills for Young Learners
This press release was distributed by the San Mateo County Executive’s Office. The original version can be viewed here. Whether a child is a few months old or on the way to the fifth grade, a new online tool can