Knowledge matters in the sciences of reading and learning.

We educate, support, and inspire educators, system leaders, and policymakers to implement and strengthen high-quality, knowledge-building curriculum and instruction.

A student gazes up with a smile
star star
star star
star star

Knowledge Matters is a national nonprofit that champions the role of content knowledge in the sciences of reading and learning through advocacy and consulting.

The Knowledge Matters Campaign, our advocacy movement, provides free, research-based tools and learning opportunities for the field.


Knowledge Matters Solutions, our consulting practice, partners with schools and systems, publishers, nonprofits, and funders.

 

NEW! Season 2 of the History Matters Podcast is here!

What kinds of history instruction build content knowledge and civic awareness? Why is social studies content such a power player when it comes to literacy? How can schools make time for these critical learning opportunities?

 

Season 2 of the History Matters Podcast explores these rich questions in exciting conversations at the intersection of English Language Arts and history instruction. Hosts Kyair Butts, Barbara Davidson, and Ebony McKiver bring listeners inside the classroom and the brain in six fast-moving episodes, featuring educators, cognitive scientists, curriculum writers, and leaders working to bring rich history instruction into the classroom. New episodes of Season 2: Connecting History to the Classroom drop every Tuesday!

Introducing the High School Review Tool!

High-quality, content-rich English coursework is essential to prepare high school students for college, career, and civic life. The new High School Review Tool defines the key features and specific attributes of evidence-based, knowledge-building English curriculum for grades 9–12, including proven literacy accelerators and rich opportunities to build a broad and growing body of knowledge, vocabulary, and conceptual understanding.

Knowledge Matters announces new executive director

In June 2026, Knowledge Matters announced Dr. Kristen McQuillan as its new Executive Director. She succeeds Barbara Davidson, who will continue to serve as President of StandardsWork, the parent organization of Knowledge Matters.

Listen to our podcasts

You can access all of our podcast seasons in our Knowledge Matters Podcast feed. Subscribe today to listen.