The ability to read is a fundamental skill needed to be successful throughout school and life. 

Perhaps no milestone is more critical in a student’s academic career than their ability to read by the end of third grade. Mastery of other academic subjects, including math, science and social studies, requires a strong foundation in basic literacy skills. Building on this foundation, students will continue to hone and develop more complex reading skills as they progress through school. For these reasons, students who cannot read proficiently by the end of third grade are four times more likely than proficient students to drop out of school before earning a diploma.

Read Now Colorado is a statewide effort to improve literacy rates. Stand for Children Colorado, a non-profit organization focused on ensuring all students have access to a great education that prepares them for success after high school, launched Read Now Colorado in early 2017.