K–3 Literacy Policy Brief: Kansas and Missouri (2025)

Early reading shapes every part of a student’s academic future, yet Kansas and Missouri continue to see stagnant or declining literacy outcomes. Nearly six in ten third graders in both states are not reading on grade level, underscoring the need for clear policy, strong implementation, and sustained support for schools.

Aligned’s K–3 Literacy Policy Brief provides a clear, accessible overview of what each state has done to strengthen early literacy—and what research suggests should come next. The brief:

• Explains the prevention–intervention–retention framework driving literacy reform nationally.

• Compares Kansas and Missouri’s key policies on screening, instruction, intervention, teacher training, and retention.

• Maps a decade of major literacy laws and initiatives in both states.

• Identifies near-term policy actions that can translate reform into measurable gains for students.

Kansas and Missouri have built the foundations for improvement. The work ahead lies in consistent, high-quality implementation: early identification, explicit instruction, targeted intervention time, coaching, and transparent progress monitoring.

Download the K–3 Literacy Policy Brief to see where each state stands—and what it will take to ensure every student learns to read.