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Reading Proficiency
A critical indicator for future success
Third grade marks the critical turning point when children make the transition from “learning to read” to “reading to learn.” Despite Massachusetts' well-earned reputation as a national leader in education, 43 percent of
the state's
third graders score below proficient on the MCAS reading test.
Massachusetts
also posts one of the largest achievement gaps in the nation. Almost two thirds of third graders from low-income families are not proficient readers, according to MCAS. Children who do not attain literacy skills, including reading and writing, by third grade struggle to catch up in future years. Research shows that these students are far less likely to graduate from high-school, become effective citizens and develop skills essential for contributing to the 21st century economy.
Learn more about reading proficiency in Massachusetts
Policy Brief: The Importance of Reading Proficiency [PDF]
Developing Early Literacy: Report of the National Early Literacy Panel [PDF]
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