Reading is the key that unlocks all learning. Yes, all learning. Let me explain. Reading is required in all subjects -- math, speaking, writing, science, social studies, arts and technology.

In math, you must read and understand word problems if you expect to get them right. You're not likely to do well in social studies and science if you can't read and understand the information in your textbooks. You'll become a better writer by seeing different writing styles, grammar, and vocabulary found in books. See the connection? And it's not enough to just read the words, you must understand them as well. There are different levels of literacy. To succeed in college, you must be fluent in reading -- that means you have to read very well. If you love to read, then keep up the good work. If you struggle with reading, you're not alone.

Take a look at these stats (or statistics). I know it sounds boring, but pay close attention because it's very important if you want to do well in school and get a good job when you're an adult. The National Assessment of Educational Progress reports that 40 percent of fourth graders and more than a quarter of 8th graders read below the “basic” level -- which means they can barely read at all. So it's no surprise that too many middle and high school students read only if books are assigned. That's a huge problem because you gain more knowledge through reading. The more you read -- the more you know. Without having fluent reading skills, college-level work is very challenging. Too many students struggle and professors complain of having to dumb down the college curriculum. As a result, many college graduates are finding it more difficult to land good jobs. About 75% of businesses complain that many job applicants lack the basic skills they need to perform their jobs. Sounds serious, doesn't it? Becoming a fluent reader is extremely important in this Age of Information and Technology. Your future may depend on it.

So how do you become a better reader? The only way to become a better reader is to read -- read -- read! It doesn't just happen overnight. You don't wake up one day and -- poof -- you're a great reader. Think about it. To be a better baseball player, you have to practice -- practice -- practice. You have to spend hours -- days -- months -- years on various skills to master them. The same holds true for reading.

Reading shouldn't be a chore. It should be fun! Read anything and everything you can find on topics you like. Not quite sure what you want to read. Pick up a bunch of grade-level books at the library and skim through some of them until you find something you like. Then find similar books. Yes, magazines and comic books count too. The point is -- just read. If you improve your reading and comprehension skills, then textbooks in school become easier to understand.

Walk in the text. We launched the Scavenger Hunt to encourage you to look at museums as a fun source of information. Most students learn best when the subjects come alive. Many schools use field trips to museums as ways to connect students to the curriculum. You can do the same during the summer months -- or any time of the year. So have fun and read. It's the key to success in the 21st century classroom and workplace. Did I metion you should read? You'll be glad you did when you return to school with a head full of knowledge.