Estacada third graders achieve largest reading gain for mid/large districts
Reported byEstacada News
Read the full story at Estacada NewsAI-assisted summary
Estacada School District says its third graders posted the biggest one-year reading improvement among mid-sized and large districts in Oregon. The claim rests on 2025-26 state assessment results that the Oregon Department of Education released late last month. The share of third graders meeting or exceeding state standards in English Language Arts climbed from 37.2% to 52%, compared with a statewide figure of 41.5%. Among 88 districts with at least 75 third graders tested, Estacada had the largest gain. The article adds that fourth and fifth graders also scored above the state average in reading proficiency.
The district credits an early literacy plan built on the science of reading. According to the article, every K-2 teacher was trained in the approach, which emphasizes vocabulary and background knowledge along with core reading skills. It uses tiered instruction, so students who fall behind get extra support and tutoring. A district official says literacy experts observe lessons and give feedback through a partnership with Stand for Children.
The article also reports broader gains. Overall math proficiency rose 6.5 points to 31.7%, the highest since 2017-18, and science proficiency reached 36.6%, six points above the state average. The superintendent says the district wants to build on this momentum in every grade.
Why it matters
Reading ability by third grade is described by the superintendent as a strong predictor of later success. The results offer families, staff and board members a local example of how one district's literacy approach coincided with rising state test scores.
- Test scores
- Literacy
- Math achievement
- Awards and recognition
Written with AI from the publisher's article and may contain errors. The original reporting is the authoritative source.
Sign in to react.
- Which parts of the early literacy plan, such as teacher training, tiered support or outside coaching, should a district consider when judging whether it is working?
- How can families support reading at home alongside what teachers do in school?
- What additional information beyond state test results would help the community understand student progress in reading, math and science?
Suggested with AI.
Public discussion (0)
Share how this affects your community. Be respectful, stay on topic, and don't post personal information. Editors may hide comments that break these rules.