Grade 3 Reading Levels Continue to Rise in Saskatchewan

Released on October 28, 2016

The number of Grade 3 students reading at grade level continues to rise, thanks to the collaborative work between the education sector and the Ministry of Education.  School division data from 2016 shows that 74 per cent of students are reading at grade level compared to 65 per cent in 2013.

“I am thrilled to see continued improvement in Grade 3 reading levels this year as our government continues to work collaboratively with our sector partners toward the goal of having 80 per cent of students reading at grade level or above by 2020,” Deputy Premier and Education Minister Don Morgan said.  “Students who are reading at or above grade level are more likely to go on to be successful in school and to graduate, and are better able to reach their full potential.”

“This nine per cent improvement over a very short period of time is a result of the dedicated work from students and teachers in school divisions across the province,” Chinook School Division Director of Education and leader of the provincial reading initiative Liam Choo-Foo said.  “Once again, we see the power in identifying a priority, dedicating resources and maintaining focus on achieving a specific goal.  The Provincial Reading Team also deserves credit in providing collective expertise in developing the Saskatchewan Reads framework that has been incorporated by all Saskatchewan school divisions.”

To support the Education Sector Strategic Plan goal, a provincial reading team created a provincial resource called Saskatchewan Reads.  It provides practical supports for teachers to assist students in achieving their reading goals and is a great planning tool and methodology to bring people together and focus on a common goal.  A companion resource, Saskatchewan Reads for Administrators, was introduced in April 2016 to help school administrators provide leadership and direction in literacy development at the school and division level.

Saskatchewan Reads and Saskatchewan Reads for Administrators are available online in English at www.saskatchewanreads.wordpress.com or in French at www.lasaskatchewanlit.wordpress.com.

Reading level data is collected by school divisions annually.

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For more information, contact:

Chris Hodges
Education
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1069
Email: chris.hodges@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-533-7506