Improving reading proficiency

Too many third-graders can’t read this sentence.

In fact, two-thirds of third-graders in the US face academic struggles that will have far-reaching consequences for them and for our country. Overwhelming research confirms the relationship between third-grade reading proficiency and high school graduation rates, and often raises the question, “What is so important about the third grade?”

For the majority of US students, fourth grade defines the time in which they are no longer learning to read but rather reading to learn. These students are expected to demonstrate a certain degree of inde­pendence across the content areas by learning from text.

When reading deficiencies are not properly addressed by the end of 3rd grade, students tend to fall further and further behind – in all major subjects. When compounded over time, these students disengage by high school, and become four times more likely to drop out than their peers who read proficiently by third grade.

More than 30 states have enacted legislation supporting, and in some cases mandating, third-grade reading proficiency by funding interventions that target early readers both at school and at home. SAS is among businesses that encourage employee involvement, make philanthropic investments and offer leadership to advisory groups and policymakers.