This paper states that the unequivocal goal that Governor George Bush has set for the state of Texas is that "all students should be able to read on grade level or higher by the end of third grade and continue to read on grade level or higher throughout their schooling." The paper explains that the governor identified eight key elements to guide the initiative, including: increasing awareness of students' reading skill levels in K-3 by providing schools with effective diagnostic tools and clear standards for measuring each individual student's progress in learning to read; promoting reading programs as a targeted priority for the $29 million in federal funding available through the state's "Academics 2000" program; showcasing model reading programs in Texas schools that have demonstrated proven success in developing students' reading skills; and motivating school districts to make reading their highest priority. The paper discusses defining good reading practice, features of effective reading programs, and new reading and assessment curriculum standards. It also discusses "Reading Spotlight Schools," a dozen schools that have been identified as demonstrating success in teaching elementary students to read, and lists 12 characteristics of these exemplary schools. The paper also cites the new focus on teacher training, new funding for reading programs, and other areas of activity. (NKA)