As we have studied the Common Core this year, we have learned about the importance of the 3rd grade. Following are some ways other states have chosen to address preparing students for 3rd grade. Courtesy of ASCD SmartBrief.

3rd-grade reading proficiency a focus in many states
Nationwide, about 30 states have taken steps to improve students' reading proficiency by the third grade -- considered a threshold after which it is difficult for students to catch up. Among the strategies states are taking are to improve prekindergarten enrollment, retain students in the third grade if they do not meet certain standards, and alter reading curricula to include oral language and preliteracy proficiency. Stateline (11/15)