READ Act
The Colorado Reading to Ensure Academic Development (READ) Act, passed by the state legislature in 2012, is designed to support early literacy for all students—especially those at risk of not reading at grade level by the end of third grade. The READ Act applies to students in kindergarten through third grade. Reading skills are assessed regularly, and students who are not yet reading at grade level receive an individualized READ plan to support their growth.
For the successful implementation of the READ Act, it is important to understand and consider the following about early literacy:
ELEMENTAL BUILDING BLOCKS
Reading is an elemental building block to receive a quality education, and every child should read at grade level by the end of third grade.
PREVENTION IS KEY
The Colorado READ Act is a legislative priority that focuses on early literacy development for all students, especially for students at risk for not reading at grade level by the end of third grade. Specific funding is allocated to help students who are struggling the most.
TEACHER KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICE ARE CRITICAL
Teacher knowledge and practice are critical. Educators must have a deep understanding of the art and science of reading to help every child become a lifelong reader.
IT TAKES A COMMUNITY
It takes collaborative partnerships between schools, educators, communities and families to improve literacy for all students.