Early Literacy in Colorado

Early Literacy in Colorado

Early literacy is especially important for your child. Between Kindergarten-3rd grade is when students develop the reading skills that will enable them to succeed in fourth grade and beyond. When students cannot read at grade level by the end of third grade, they are much more likely to struggle in all of their classes.

The Colorado Reading to Ensure Academic Development (READ) Act provides supports that help Kindergarten-3rd grade students build key literacy skills so they can read at grade level by the time they enter fourth grade.  

The law ensures:  

  • All Colorado students in the K-3 grades learn foundational literacy skills 
  • Early identification of struggling readers so they can receive the support they need, including individual READ plans for parents and teachers to help improve a child’s reading skills  
  • Ongoing reading support for struggling readers until they reach grade-level proficiency

Learning to read by the end of 3rd grade gives children the foundational skills they need to excel in all subjects. This video provides information about early literacy policy in Colorado and how parents can support their child in learning to read.

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