About 60 parents are asking the Wallingford-Swarthmore School District to utilize the science of reading in their reading curriculum, which is based on research into how children learn to read, writes Maddie Hanna for The Philadelphia Inquirer.

In some districts where test scores are high, like in Wallingford-Swarthmore, there’s little motivation to change programs, even if it is using outdated methods and materials that emphasize exposure to books and independent reading, rather than direct instruction in phonics skills.

Wallingford-Swarthmore uses Units of Study, a reading program experts say is deeply flawed.

Ashwina Mosakowski, district director of elementary teaching, learning, and motivation, admits there are gaps in the program but said teachers have made modifications, including adding word study to the curriculum, and that they have seen success in the classroom.

In April, Mosakowsi told the school board, “We have adopted the science of reading.”

But parents say the district is still clinging to elements of an outdated approach.

Kids in an affluent district can use private tutors to overcome gaps, but those who can’t fall further behind, said parent Bridget Mead.

The parents stated in a November letter to the district they want more transparency in the reading program.

Read more about Swarthmore-Wallingford’s reading program in The Philadelphia Inquirer.