News Release

March 1, 2019

NDE LAUNCHES NebraskaREADS, RELEASES APPROVED READING ASSESSMENT LIST

A student’s ability to read is a critical predictor of academic and lifelong success. Today, the Nebraska Department of Education (NDE) released the list of approved reading assessments, as required by the Nebraska Reading Improvement Act. The list is part of the NebraskaREADS initiative, which provides tools and resources to support high-quality literacy instruction for all Nebraska students.

The Nebraska Reading Improvement Act became law in 2018 with the goal that all Nebraska students are able to read at or above grade level by the end of third grade. Beginning in the 2019-2020 school year, districts will use an assessment from the approved list to determine student reading proficiency three times during the school year. In addition to the law, the NebraskaREADS initiative highlights policies, procedures, and practices that guide and assist districts as they build family, community, and school partnerships to help students become successful readers.

The NebraskaREADS initiative emphasizes the need for pre-kindergarten through third grade students to have access to high-quality instruction, and for struggling readers to receive targeted, individualized support. These efforts are designed to give students every opportunity to gain literacy skills that will enable them to become more proficient and more confident readers.

For more information, and to view the approved reading assessment list, visit the Nebraska READS webpage.

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