The 2005 PreK-12 Rhode Island Literacy Policy serves to expand and revise the original K–3 Rhode Island Reading Policy first published in February 2000. The original document has been broadened beyond the primary years to include a focus on literacy acquisition through grade 12. The belief that literacy learning is an on-going process has been confirmed by research and is reflected in this updated policy.

The updated policy provides the foundation of confirmed scientific research about literacy development, intervention, and the prevention of reading difficulties. It also serves to unify the State's literacy reform initiatives because it articulates confirmed research about how students best develop literacy and how successful programs work to ensure that virtually every student attains proficiency. This policy calls for instruction that is designed to meet individual student needs by being accessible, flexible, and engaging. Such instruction incorporates strategies, methods, and resources that ensure literacy success for all.

All Rhode Island school districts are expected to utilize the 2005 PreK–12 Rhode Island Literacy Policy as the foundation for their literacy efforts, to use proven practices, and to maintain congruence among and across curriculum, instruction, and assessment.