When elementary schools integrate literacy and science instruction, they create rich learning environments that allow students to develop an understanding of science ideas while improving their reading, writing, and speaking skills at the same time. Neither subject takes a back seat. Literacy instruction supports science and science instruction supports literacy. By blending literacy and science, schools maximize time and accelerate learning--achieving more than either subject could alone. This is true for all students whether they speak English at home or are multilingual learners. NWEA® has published a series of briefs detailing how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted learning. Not only did achievement fall in both reading and science, but it has continued to fall without rebounding. Recent NAEP and TIMSS results further suggest that students still require comprehensive supports to recover test score disparities stemming from the pandemic. Students are not just behind, they are stuck. A fresh approach is not optional; it is essential. Given these continued gaps between pre- and post-pandemic performance and the strong research base behind the integration of literacy and science instruction, we argue that school and district leaders can accelerate student learning by supporting integration. In this report the authors outline four key components of effectively integrated literacy and science instruction. For each component, the authors then provide specific recommendations for education leaders to create system-level supports that enable teachers to implement integration in their classrooms. For detailed classroom-level implementation guidance, see the Practitioner's guide to integrating literacy and science.