Public scientific literacy - the ability of everyday citizens to understand basic scientific concepts and processes - has been a concern for decades.

The United States is facing a quiet but escalating literacy crisis - one that threatens economic stability, democratic participation, and the long-term health of communities. While the country once prided itself on near-universal literacy, recent national assessments reveal a troubling decline in reading proficiency across both children and adults.

Science literacy isn't about memorizing formulas or mastering obscure terminology. At its heart, it's the ability to understand how scientific knowledge is built, to evaluate evidence, and to make informed decisions in a world shaped by technology and data. Strengthening it is less about becoming an expert and more about cultivating habits of curiosity, skepticism, and engagement - habits that anyone can develop.