Montgomery County lawmakers are publicly praising what they're calling a historic increase in third-grade literacy rates across Indiana, as showcased by the latest IREAD assessment scores. According to a recent announcement, the state saw its largest single-year leap in reading proficiency since the inception of the Indiana Reading Evaluation and Determination (IREAD) in 2013. The data for the 2024-2025 academic year shines a positive light, especially in the aftermath of educational disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
Specifically, State Rep. Beau Baird (R-Greencastle) pointed out that third-grade reading scores have surged by almost five percentage points. Now, over 87% of Indiana's third graders have demonstrated their ability to read proficiently, rebounding to levels observed before the pandemic disrupted education. According to Indiana House Republicans, Baird, in a statement given to the public, expressed his gratitude, acknowledging the collective effort of "teachers, students and their families, and state leaders" for this academic recovery. The representative emphasized how this achievement serves as a reaffirmation of the strategies deployed to effectively counteract the pandemic's impact on learning.
Literacy uplift is reportedly not limited to a select few, with improvements recorded across all student demographics. State Rep. Matt Commons (R-Williamsport) remarked on the hard work of both students and teachers in driving this change. "I am proud of the students and teachers who have worked so hard to improve reading skills," Commons told sources, as reported by Indiana House Republicans. Linking these latest outcomes to previous gains, State Rep. Mark Genda (R-Frankfort) noted that these IREAD results were closely followed by Indiana's ranking sixth in the country for fourth and eighth-grade reading, according to the 2024 National Assessment of Education Progress (NAEP). Genda told the public that the state is "dedicated to improving our literacy rates and will continue discussing new ways to keep kids engaged" in reading activities and learning.
According to Indiana House Republicans, in a legislative push to support these literacy advancements, the General Assembly passed laws designed to directly influence literacy education. In 2023, a law was enacted implementing the science of reading standards. The following year, additional measures included screenings for students at risk of falling behind in reading proficiency, coupled with earlier interventions. State Rep. Jeff Thompson (R-Lizton) explained the necessity of these initiatives, saying, "Too many Hoosier students were falling behind on this fundamental part of learning."
For a detailed look at individual school and corporation results from the 2025 IREAD, the Indiana Department of Education’s website provides comprehensive information. Further details of the state's literacy standards are also accessible to those interested in the specifics of Indiana's educational strategies. You can learn more by visiting the official announcement.
