A sweeping overhaul of Colorado’s literacy guidelines will revamp literacy teaching in the early grades.
The measure, signed into law last week by Gov. John Hickenlooper, a Democrat, mandates statewide reading assessments as early as kindergarten. It will require schools to identify children who are significantly behind in reading skills.
By the end of 3rd grade, students considered far behind in reading won’t be allowed to go on to 4th grade without the permission of the district superintendent. Supporters say the overhaul is needed to make sure children can read by the middle of elementary school. Critics say it may be a one-size-fits-all approach.
