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Cells Quote by Mary Landrieu

“If you want to know how many prison cells to build, look at the number of third graders who can't read.” quote by Mary Landrieu
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“If you want to know how many prison cells to build, look at the number of third graders who can't read.”

Mary Landrieu

About This Quote

Source Speech: Education policy remarks, 2005

Literacy rates among children predict future prison populations; improving reading skills can reduce crime.

In simple terms: Child literacy impacts crime rates.

Key Takeaway

Invest in early reading programs.

Themes

education crime prevention literacy

Mood

concerned hopeful

Type

social policy

When to use this quote

  • schools
  • legislative advocacy
  • community programs
  • parental involvement
  • non‑profit work

Key Concepts

social policy public health

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we improve reading skills at scale?
  • What other factors influence prison populations?
A Different Perspective

Implementation costs and systemic barriers exist.

3.7 out of 5 (4 ratings)

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