Michigan's Law
READ BY GRADE THREE

Read by Grade Three

Michigan’s Read By Grade Three Law

In 2016, the Michigan Legislature passed a law to ensure that all children exiting Grade 3 are proficient in reading. This original law had a retention recommendation for any student reading below grade level. In 2024, the retention piece of the law was repealed. In 2024 and beyond, students scoring below the score of 1271 on the 3rd Grade M-STEP Reading Test will receive a letter from the State to advise parents of a reading deficiency.

Many requirements of the law were occurring in Kenowa Hills Public Schools prior to its passing. KHPS staff is required to provide ongoing assessments for all students in grades K-3 and inform parents of student progress in reading by creating an IRIP (Individualized Reading Improvement Plan) if the student is below grade level in reading.

KHPS approaches this legislation not as a requirement, rather an opportunity to provide the best possible reading instruction for all students. Strong literacy instruction and interventions continue to be in place. In addition to this, a Literacy Coach provides ongoing support and professional development to K-3 teachers.

What can you do as parents to support your child’s reading success?

• Read out loud to your child
• Listen to your child read
• As you read: Ask your child to share what they remember
• Talk about your favorite parts, what you’ve learned, or who is in the book and what they do
• Talk about the pictures in the book and how they connect to the words on the page
• Help connect the stories to your child’s life or other books you’ve read, even on trips to the store

Reading Law Parent Resources

Read by Grade Three Law Informational Video
Essentials for Families

The Michigan Department of Education provides more information on the “Read by Grade Three Law” website. If you would like further information about our district practices and procedures, please contact your child’s building administrator.