Denver - Denver Public Schools (DPS) is thrilled to announce the release of the spring READ Act results, showcasing remarkable growth and narrowing reading achievement gaps among K-3 students district-wide. This upward trajectory reflects the dedication and commitment of educators, students, and families in fostering a culture of literacy.

Studies have shown that the ability to read at grade level by the end of third grade is a key indicator of future success in school, employment, and life. Students who are not proficient readers by third grade are more likely to struggle in school, drop out of high school, and have behavioral and mental health issues.

Under the READ Act, a state law mandating the assessment of K-3 students' progress towards reading on grade level by third grade, DPS witnessed an overall increase in scholars performing at grade level, and a decline in those performing at the lowest levels. 

Of all the students tested, an impressive 61% were reading at grade level or above, marking a 3% point surge from Spring 2023 and a remarkable 12% point increase since Fall 2023. Additionally, the data showed a 4% increase for Black students, 7% increase for Hispanic students.

The READ Act also requires individual intervention plans, known as READ plans, for students who score significantly below grade level (SBGL). This spring, the SBGL rate improved by 1%, reaching 23%, compared to the previous year. Notably, DPS made significant strides in reducing SBGL rates for all grades and marginalized student groups, with Black scholars experiencing a notable 4% point improvement compared to Spring 2023.

At the school level, DPS witnessed remarkable progress, with 75 out of 111 schools increasing the percentage of students scoring at grade level or above, and 61 schools successfully decreasing the percentage of students reading significantly below grade level, showcasing the collective efforts of educators and administrators. 

 "I applaud the work of our incredible educators,” said Denver Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Alex Marrero. “While we still have more work to do, the clear gains of our students demonstrate that the approach we are taking is working."

Among other highlights in the data:

• Year Over Year Growth

  • The District’s score increased by 3% in the last year, from 58% in 2022-23 to 61% in 2023-24.

  • Scores that were at or above grade level for kindergarten students have returned to pre-pandemic levels.

  • Scores that were at or above grade level for students with disabilities have exceeded pre-pandemic numbers.

  • Goldrick Elementary School had a 35% point increase in reading at Grade Level (GL) and above, and decreased SBGL scores by 19% compared to Spring 2023.   

  • International Academy of Denver at Harrington also increased GL and above scores by 32%, and decreased SBGL scores by 36% compared to Spring 2023.

    
    

• In Year Growth (Fall 2023 to Spring 2024)

  • The District’s Free and Reduced Lunch population scores increased by 16%, from 38% in the Fall of 2023 to 54% at or above GL in the Spring of 2024.

  • Black students outpaced the in year growth of the district average with at or above GL numbers increasing by 16% from Fall to Spring, where the district average was 12%.

By focusing on early literacy interventions and fostering a supportive learning environment, DPS continues its commitment to ensuring every child receives the necessary support to thrive academically.

-DPS-