ISTA Statement on Third-Grade Retention Data
11/05/2025

“Today’s IREAD results highlight the daily work of educators to strengthen literacy instruction and support every student in becoming a successful reader. While we all share the goal of ensuring every third grader can read, retention alone is not the answer. Students need early, sustained intervention, small-group instruction and support that meets their individual needs.

We appreciate Sec. Jenner’s focus on literacy and share her commitment to helping students thrive. ISTA will continue to work alongside the IDOE and lawmakers to ensure schools have the resources and flexibility they need to support every learner.”