WestEd Study Results: Read Better Be Better Meets ESSA Tier II Standards
PROVEN: READ BETTER BE BETTER PROGRAMS WORK
An independent study by WestEd, a respected education research group, found that Read Better Be Better helps students make real gains in reading fluency and key literacy skills.
We could not be prouder to share the outcome:
- The Read Better Be Better program meets ESSA Tier II Evidence Standards.
- This means that Read Better Be Better 3rd graders scored better on Arizona’s statewide reading test compared to students not in the program.
- Students gained in fluency, phonemic awareness, and decoding.
The match-comparison study looked at three school years’ worth of data, spanning 2021-2024 and the substantial sample size included more than 1,200 K-3 students.
In short, the study confirmed what educators and families have seen for years: Read Better Be Better programs make a real difference, equipping K–3 students with the skills to read.
61% of Arizona third graders are not reading at grade level, making it harder for them to succeed in school and in life. The Tier II Evidence Standard designation confirms that Read Better Be Better drives results, preparing students not just for school, but for lifelong success.
To view the full results of WestEd’s 2025 Read Better Be Better study, click here.