The Read to Succeed Act is a South Carolina law aimed at improving reading skills to prepare
students for college, careers, or military readiness.
Under the Read to Succeed law:
· Beginning in the 2024-2025 school year, The law requires that third-grade students who do
not demonstrate reading proficiency—scoring Does Not Meet Expectations on the SC Ready
reading assessment—be retained for additional support.
· Beginning in the 2025-2026 school year, first-grade students who are not reading at grade
level will be required to attend summer reading camps. This program offers intensive, small-
group instruction to help students strengthen their reading skills.
· In the 2026-2027 school year, this requirement will extend to second-grade students.
To monitor student progress, all students take the NWEA MAP reading assessments three
times per year: in the fall, winter, and spring. After each MAP assessment window, we will
notify the parents of any child who is not currently meeting grade-level expectations and
needs additional support. We believe early notification is crucial, and we want to partner with
you to help your child improve their reading skills.
How Will We Support Students Who Need Extra Support?
We will provide 30 minutes of additional daily reading support to any child who is not
meeting grade level expectations based on their most recent NWEA MAP results. This support
will include:
· Regular progress monitoring with reading check-ins
· Extra daily reading activities tailored to their needs
· Frequent updates on progress and strategies for at-home practice
· Possible access to reading enrichment programs designed to strengthen essential skills
How Can Parents Help at Home?
Your involvement at home is crucial to your child’s success. Here are some ways you can
support your child’s reading development:
· Read Together: Spend at least 20 minutes each day reading with your child. This can include
books, magazines, or any other reading material that interests them.
· Discuss Books: Talk about the stories you read together. Ask questions about the characters
and what your child liked most about the story.
Scheduling a Conference
If your child is not meeting grade level expectations, we understand that you may have
questions or concerns about your child's reading progress. You may schedule a conference
with your child’s teacher at any time by:
· Calling the school office at 803-684-1926 – or-
· Emailing your child’s teacher.
We are committed to working together to help your child develop strong reading skills, which
are critical for their future success.
Special Information for 3rd Grade Parents About Read to Succeed Law
Third grade is a critical year for our students as they transition from learning to read to
reading to learn. We are committed to supporting your child’s reading development and
helping them succeed. Below are key details about the Read to Succeed Act and how it
impacts third-grade reading expectations.
Why Third Grade Reading Matters
Reading proficiency by the end of third grade is essential for your child’s academic success.
At this stage, students use reading skills to learn other subjects like math, science, and social
studies. Developing fluency and comprehension now lays the foundation for future learning
and success.
The Read to Succeed Act
The Read to Succeed Act ensures that all students gain the reading skills necessary for
college, career, or military readiness. The law requires that third-grade students who do not
demonstrate reading proficiency—scoring Does Not Meet Expectations on the SC Ready
reading assessment—be retained for additional support.
Good Cause Exemptions
Students who qualify for specific Good Cause Exemptions may still be promoted to fourth
grade. These exemptions include:
· Limited English proficiency (fewer than two years of English instruction).
· Disabilities requiring alternative assessments or interventions (as outlined in their IEP).
· Receiving reading interventions for two years and previously being retained.
· Demonstrating reading proficiency on an approved alternative assessment.
Please contact your school if you believe your child may qualify for an exemption.
Summer Reading Camp (SRC)
Students who do not meet the required reading level by the end of third grade will be invited
to attend Summer Reading Camp. This program offers intensive, small-group instruction to
help students strengthen their reading skills. Successful completion of the camp could lead
to promotion to fourth grade.
How We Support Your Child
We are committed to helping every student become a confident, independent reader
through:
· Additional instructional time focused on literacy.
· Small-group and individualized reading interventions.
· Specialized teacher training provided by literacy coaches.
We also monitor progress regularly and communicate results to keep you informed.
How You Can Help at Home
Your involvement is key to your child’s reading success. Here’s how you can help:
· Read Together Daily: Encourage your child to read aloud and ask questions like, “What
happened in the story?” or “Why do you think that happened?”
· Communicate with Teachers: Stay in touch with your child’s teacher about their progress.
· Use School Resources: We’re here to provide tools and materials to support your child’s
reading journey at home.
