From READ Act to Results: Advancing Literacy in Colorado

Colorado began its literacy efforts before most other states. Since 2012, the Reading to Ensure Academic Development (READ) Act has required teachers to be trained in evidence-based K–3 literacy. Despite these efforts, recent reading results show a 4% decline between 2019 and 2024.

Colorado administrators and teachers understand why and how evidence-based literacy practices help improve literacy for all students. The next step is to put this knowledge into classroom teaching and track student progress. 

• Data shows which teachers have completed required professional learning courses, but it does not tell administrators how much teachers have changed their instruction. 

• Administrators also need to observe classrooms, determine ways to offer timely coaching, protect teaching time, and support both multilingual learners and students needing extra help.

Colorado leaders are also preparing for additional literacy requirements. The READ Act now applies to principals and administrators in districts that receive READ funding. Starting in the 2027–28 school year, Colorado will require universal dyslexia screening for students in grades K–3.

At a recent Lexia® literacy leadership summit, education leaders from Colorado and across the West shared common implementation challenges, including competing priorities, limited time for coaching and observation, and the need for stronger systems to support lasting instructional change.

Read this executive summary to understand what fellow educational leaders are saying about sustained literacy implementation.