Ensure all students can read

In many school districts, almost half of the requests to join special education programs stem from challenges in reading. The number of requests tends to go up from third to sixth grades because difficulties in reading can affect learning other subjects like math, science, and social studies. If students don't get the hang of reading by the end of third grade, they often face ongoing struggles in high school and beyond. These students might also encounter more behavior issues in later grades and are less likely to finish high school or go to college.

To improve the outcomes for all students who find learning challenging, districts must consistently use the best methods for teaching reading. It's crucial that students with mild to moderate disabilities also benefit from these effective teaching methods to support their learning.