When kids start school they are learning to read between Pre-K and 3rd grade. After this point, children must read to learn. According to the Campaign for Grade Level Reading, “Reading proficiency by third grade is the most important predictor of high school graduation and career success. Yet every year, more than 80 percent of low-income children miss this crucial milestone.” Afterschool programs have a critical role to play in supporting the goal of 3rd grade reading success. The Campaign for Grade Level Reading is about more than literacy. In order to support young learners, programs and organizations must look holistically at children’s experiences and connect with others to facilitate student success. This includes being a part of school attendance teams, demonstrating the impact of afterschool as an intervention to support children and their families, and educating parents and other partners about the impact summer learning and school readiness has on children’s outcomes.

For more information on the Campaign for Grade Level Reading:  http://gradelevelreading.net/