Transforming Learning: We Ensure Grade-Level Reading

Third grade is a critical milestone for literacy because third grade is the last year where students learn to read. Starting in fourth grade, students must read to learn other subjects like history, science, and even math. This means that students who are behind in reading in third grade are likely to fall behind in other areas of learning.

In Palm Beach County, only 54% of third graders were reading on or above grade level in 2021. That means that nearly half of the third-grade students in Palm Beach County are being left behind. In the area that we serve, that number is closer to 75%. 

At The Foundations School, ensuring grade-level reading is one of our top priorities. When we started the school in January 2021, only 9% of our students were reading on or above grade level. By August 2021, 27% of students met this benchmark. But in our most recent assessment, 50% of our students are reading at or on grade level. That is an incredible jump in such a short period of time.

“Reading is the key to everything,” CCE Director of Schools Kevin Kovacs said. “Once a student learns to read, it opens all the doors to all the learning that comes next.” 

If you want to read more about our success stories, you can see profiles on three of our students here. You can also learn more about the importance of reading aloud to your child here.