Ninety Percent of TCSS Third Graders Reading At or Above Grade Level

The Tuscaloosa County School System is proud to share that 90 percent of our third grade students are reading at or above grade level! This is based on ACAP (Alabama Comprehensive Assessment Program) data from this Spring. Not only is this a strong score, but it is 15 percentage points higher than last year’s score. This growth reflects the hard work of our students and dedicated focus of our teachers and administrators, in helping students reach their academic goals. 

For third grade students not yet reading on grade level, TCSS will provide summer learning opportunities to help these students reach their reading goals. These students will also have an opportunity to retake the ACAP reading test, after summer learning. 

The Alabama Literacy Act requires third graders to be reading on grade level to be promoted to fourth grade. However, there are exceptions in the law for some students who receive special education services or speak English as a second language. Out of the 10 percent of TCSS third graders who did not meet the required score, the majority will not be retained in third grade. This is because they meet one of the exceptions, or they will receive reading support over the summer that will help them meet grade level standards.   

Congratulations to our students and educators on hard work that is resulting in big gains for students!