E-School News – Laura Ascione 
Reading ability is a big predictor of other academic success, and unfortunately, many U.S. students are not reading at grade level, according to new research. Research has long established that proficient reading helps students succeed in other subject areas, especially as academic content becomes more challenging. Students who do not read at grade level by 4th grade are four times more likely to drop out of high school. Reading ability also helps children develop empathy and self-confidence. (more)