INDIANAPOLIS -
Thousands of Indiana third graders may have to repeat the third grade because of a new state-mandated reading test. Educators say drastic action now may prevent more serious consequences later.
These young students face a huge test with unprecedented consequences. Third graders passing the new reading exam go on to the fourth grade. Those who fail will be held back.
How serious are school administrators?
"Very serious. The state is serious. The state is serious about that," said Eastridge Elementary School Principal Robin LeClair.
Students in the Warren Township school began preparing last year. They spend at least 90 minutes a day working on reading skills. Struggling students receive an additional hour of help.
LeClair added, "Every moment is a learning moment. We've been training kids to have the stamina for reading and writing."
That's a lot of pressure for teachers and young children. Nancy McClimons sees it in her granddaughter.
"There is stress there, I'm sure," she said.
"You are hearing it from your granddaughter?" Eyewitness News asked.
"Yes," she replied.
IRead is rigorous 70-minute exam, testing reading and writing as well as vocabulary and phonics skills. In one question, third graders have to pick the word with the same beginning sound as "grass." Is it gray, guest or glove? "Gray" is the correct answer.
Eastridge has a plenty of books and games and advice to help parents help their children.
"Spend some time, 20 to 30 minutes a night reading, even on the weekends," said Amy Lorch, the school's literacy coach.
The exam is less than three weeks away. Can help at home still make a difference? "Absolutely. I think it will, absolutely," she added.
The state is putting so much emphasis on third graders because of research showing students who don't read well at this age probably never will. The belief is that helping and holding some back now may keep them from dropping out later.
Not everyone shares that belief. IRead is a controversial exam, with one Muncie woman filing a petition on Change.org to stop it.
Schools can start administering the exam on March 19th.
Related links:
Sample IRead Test
IRead Parent Information
IRead All DOE Web Sites
Eastridge Elementary School Principal Robin LeClair
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