A new state law is shaping the way schools and families partner to support literacy development in elementary students. Under this new legislation, schools are now required to notify parents if their child in grades K–6 is not reading at grade-level proficiency. Importantly, the law also grants parents the right to request that their child repeat a grade the following school year if they are not proficient in reading.

At Urbandale Community Schools, our commitment remains clear: we are your partners in education. While we fully respect parental rights under the new law, our district does not generally recommend grade retention as an effective strategy to improve academic outcomes. Extensive research indicates that retention often leads to negative long-term effects on both academic achievement and social-emotional well-being. Instead, our focus is on providing high-quality, targeted literacy instruction tailored to the individual needs of each student. It is important for families to understand that the new retention option applies specifically to reading proficiency, not to a child’s overall academic performance. Even before this law was enacted, our teachers have been working diligently to identify students who need additional support and to develop personalized reading intervention plans. These plans are designed to accelerate growth and build the foundational skills students need to become successful readers.

If your child is identified as not meeting grade-level reading standards, you will receive formal notification from the school. This communication will provide a clear overview of your child’s current progress, the supports already in place, and information about your options under the new law. Should you wish to consider grade retention, we will work closely with you to carefully review your child’s needs and determine the most supportive next steps.

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