Reading scores show slow—but steady— improvement in early grades.
The most recent beginning-of-year data show overall progress in reading readiness for K–2 students. Insights show:
- More young readers are on track and fewer are far behind than at any time since the pandemic.
- K–2 students who are far behind at the beginning of the school year, but on track by the end of the year, are likely to stay on track through third grade.
- Overall, fewer than half of K–2 students are on track to learn to read, a troubling national trend.

Explore Amplify’s beginning-of-year research brief.
Research briefs for the 2024–2025 school year
October 2024
BOY: Summer instructional loss highlights the importance of quality core instruction for the youngest grades.
February 2025
MOY: Early literacy gains offer hope for COVID recovery, though broader literacy challenges persist nationwide.
July 2025
EOY: Reading scores rise overall; gender disparities present a complex picture.
October 2025
BOY: More students start the school year on track for learning to read, though momentum is slow.
Read more research and case studies.
Amplify’s high-quality programs benefit millions of students every day using methods that are evidence-based, ESSA-aligned, and showing efficacy in a variety of contexts. Read more research and case studies and see more briefs on early literacy.





















































































































































