43% of tested K-6 students start the year below reading benchmark

What happened

At the start of the 2026-27 school year, 43% of tested K-6 students scored below or well below the reading benchmark. Only 134 of 287 students were tested because many parents, especially at Utah Peak Academy, opted out. The board approved an elementary literacy plan aiming to raise the share at benchmark by 10 percentage points this year.

Why it matters to families

Reading early is key to later school success. The high opt-out rate also means the district has less information about how many students need help.

The evidence

October 13, 2026 draft (unapproved) minutes report the beginning-of-year Acadience results and record a unanimous vote approving the District Elementary Literacy Plan.

The source