Indiana’s third graders have shown notable improvement in reading, according to the Indiana Department of Education. Results from the 2024-2025 Indiana Reading Evaluation and Determination (IREAD) assessment show a nearly five percentage point increase in literacy rates from the previous year, with more than 87 percent of students demonstrating reading proficiency—returning to pre-pandemic levels.
As per the Indiana House Republicans, State Reps. Danny Lopez (R-Carmel) and Hunter Smith (R-Zionsville) noted the progress, highlighting the work of teachers, students, and families. Indiana also ranked sixth nationally for fourth and eighth grade reading performance in 2024, based on the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP).
Local results were particularly strong, with Carmel Clay Schools recording a 95 percent IREAD pass rate and Zionsville Community Schools reaching 97 percent. These gains follow state legislation that introduced science of reading standards in 2023 and mandated screenings and early interventions in 2024 to support students at risk of falling behind.
Full 2025 IREAD results for individual schools and districts, along with details on Indiana’s literacy standards, are available on the Indiana Department of Education’s website.
