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It is a stunning figure when you think about it - 24 percent of the children in Utah's elementary schools can't read at grade level by the end of third grade.
That's one of every four kids!
It is also worrisome that those kids who struggle to read are the ones most likely to become frustrated in school, with the very real possibility of dropping out entirely by high school. And the consequences of doing that are enormous.
A measure before the legislature, in KSL's view, would help stem the tide. In fact, Senate Bill 150 is relatively simple and straightforward. It formalizes what we suspect most people think is already the case . . .that "students in first, second and third grades read at least at a minimum level, at or above grade level, prior to advancing to the next grade, with certain exceptions."
This is something that needs to happen. The measure clearly establishes procedures for identifying kids with reading problems, as well as mechanisms for remediation. Most importantly, it involves parents in the process of seeing that children succeed.
KSL urges passage of Senate Bill 150. It is one of those important measures that should not fall through the cracks during the waning days of the legislative session.
