New Michigan Literacy Law Could Prevent Students From Advancing to Next Grade

In an attempt to ensure children are learning to read at the appropriate level, Michigan is considering a law that could prevent kids from advancing to the next grade.

A recent report from the Detroit Free Press indicates that state lawmakers are reviewing a policy change that could force third graders to be held back if they fail to test proficient enough in reading.

Governor Snyder has said that he wants to “dramatically” improve the reading capabilities of those students in the third grade, as recent data reveals that competent reading at this level dictates a higher degree of success in high school.

The literacy proposal originally projected 30 percent of third graders would end up on the chopping block, if they did not test well enough on reading exams, but those figures will likely be more around 2.5 percent.

Those kids who test on the line would be required to go through a special reading assistance program, but would be allowed to move ahead to the next grade.