KidREACH

U.S. fourth-graders have lost ground in reading ability compared with kids around the world, according to results of a global reading test.On the latest international exam, U.S. students posted a lower average score than students in Russia, Hong Kong, Singapore, Luxembourg, Hungary, Italy and Sweden, along with the Canadian provinces of Alberta, British Columbia and Ontario. In West Virginia only 28% of children score proficiently on reading tests at the 4th grade level, (#39 out of the 50 states). In Georgia only 28% of children score proficiently on reading tests at the 4th grade level, (#38 out of the 50 states). In Washington only 36% of children score proficiently on reading tests at the 4th grade level, (#10 out of 50 states) Each year, those who have dropped out of school cost the US over $240 billion in lost earnings, forgone tax revenues and expenditures for social services.

• Studies show that students involved in afterschool programs get better grades, attend school more regularly and have improved behavior. They also express greater hopes for the future and more interest in school.
• "Research demonstrates that if students cannot read well by the end of the 3rd grade, their chances for success are significantly diminished, and they have a greater likelihood of dropping out or engaging in escalating delinquent behaviors." 
• Every dollar invested in afterschool programs will save taxpayers approximately $3.

In West Virgina

In Albany, Georgia

In West Virginia

In Albany Georgia