Pratham USA

Our solution to the global learning crisis is grounded in one of the most important principles of effective teaching: start with what the child knows. Teaching at the Right Level (TaRL) is a simple, evidence-based approach that assesses children’s current learning levels and then groups and teaches them based on their needs rather than their age or grade. It focuses on building foundational reading and math skills—skills that are essential for all further learning.

TaRL is effective because it directly addresses the mismatch between children’s learning levels and how instruction is typically delivered in classrooms. The method is activity-based, engaging, and easy to implement with basic training. Over the past two decades, TaRL has reached millions of children across India and has been successfully adapted in over 10 African countries. Its impact has been documented through numerous randomized evaluations and recognized as a “great buy” in global education.

Pratham USA, and its partners, Pratham Education Foundation, Pratham International, and Teaching at the Right Level Africa (Empower Learning Africa), will scale TaRL to reach 25 million children across Asia, Africa, and Latin America. By working with governments, schools, and communities, the approach will be integrated into existing education systems and delivered by trained local teachers and volunteers. A global support team will provide technical guidance, measurement tools, and implementation support to ensure quality and adaptation across contexts.

This solution has the potential to transform education systems from the ground up—ensuring that no child is invisible in the classroom, and every child gets the chance to learn, thrive, and succeed.