Spring 2024 Reading Proficiency Rates Outpace Neighborhood CPS Schools

At St. Benedict Preparatory School, 87% of students scored at or above the proficient level for reading.  In Chicago Public Schools, 17% of students tested at or above the proficient level for reading. Two neighboring CPS schools with similar demographics achieved a reading proficiency rate of 51% and 53%. Overall in the State of Illinois, 40.9% of grades 3-8 students tested at or above the proficient level for reading.  

Learning to read in elementary school is crucial for several reasons: 

  1. Foundation for Future Learning: Reading is the cornerstone of education. It enables children to access information across all subjects, from math to science to history. Without strong reading skills, students may struggle to understand and engage with the curriculum as they progress through school. 

  1. Cognitive Development: Reading enhances cognitive skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and comprehension. It helps children develop their vocabulary, improve their memory, and understand complex concepts, which are essential for academic success and everyday life. 

  1. Social and Emotional Growth: Reading stories and literature exposes children to different cultures, perspectives, and experiences. This can foster empathy, improve communication skills, and help children understand and manage their own emotions. It also encourages imagination and creativity, which are important for personal development. 

 

Let’s break it down by grade level. Percentage of SBPS students reading at the proficient level by grade based on Spring 2024 Final iReady Diagnostic:  

Grade 1  76% 

Grade 2  80% 

Grade 3  93% 

Grade 4  88% 

Grade 5  77% 

Grade 6  85% 

Grade 7  92% 

Grade 8 85% 

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