The National Reading Panel (NRP) was established in 1997 by the U.S. Department of Education to assess the effectiveness of different reading instruction methods. Comprised of experts in reading research, the panel aimed to provide evidence-based recommendations to improve reading skills among children. In 2000, the NRP released a comprehensive report that highlighted key findings on reading instruction, including the importance of phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension strategies. Their work has significantly influenced educational practices and policies related to reading education in the United States.