WASHINGTON, DC - January 29, 2001 - The National Reading Panel (NRP) today announced the launch of its redesigned Web site at http:// www.nationalreadingpanel.org 
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In 1997, Congress called for the creation of the NRP to assess the effectiveness of different approaches used to teach children to read. For over two years, the NRP reviewed research-based knowledge on reading instruction and held open panel meetings in Washington, DC, and regional meetings across the United States. On April 13, 2000, the NRP concluded its work and submitted its final report to Congress - Teaching Children to Read. President Bush recently cited Teaching Children to Read as the foundation upon which he plans to build his newly proposed "Reading First" literacy initiative.
While the NRP no longer meets as a panel, members continue to present the NRP findings at various conferences and organizational meetings. The updated Web site is one of many efforts to disseminate the NRP's findings to the widest possible audience.
The Web site includes:
- Downloadable files of Teaching Children to Read (Summary Report and Final Report)
- Online order form for copies of the report and a 20-minute video highlighting the NRP's major findings
- Frequently Asked Questions about the NRP
- Press releases and congressional testimony
- And much more!
The purpose of the revamped site is to provide educators, principals, administrators, parents, business leaders, policymakers, and other interested individuals with the information they will need to reform and improve reading instruction in the nation's classrooms.
The Web site will be updated regularly with information about NRP publications and materials, as well as upcoming speaking engagements by Panel members. The site is also an archive, featuring the congressional charge to the NRP, biographies of NRP members, meeting minutes, and other historical information.
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