This academy examines the question “literacy for what?”, exploring the relationship between the politics of literacy and learning in the United States and understanding the key shifts needed for teachers to move towards a more culturally responsive literacy model. The academy will help participants make a distinction between a traditional literacy lens versus a culturally responsive literacy lens. This academy serves to position the theoretical foundation for the remaining academies where greater attention is given to specific culturally responsive literacy strategies. It is critical for participants to examine and understand the question of “Literacy for what?” before moving on to the next two academies.