To support districts in implementing Arkansas’s 3rd Grade Promotion requirements in accordance with the LEARNS Act, the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) will host the following informational webinar:

• Friday, August 29, 2025 |10:00 am - 11:15 am
  3rd Grade Promotion – Guidance for the 2025–26 School Year

•  Audience: District, School, and Regional Leadership

This session will provide:

• Expectations for 3rd Grade Promotion

• Practical tools for district-level implementation

• Guidance to ensure early intervention and student support

Why This Matters
Beginning in the 2025–2026 school year, third grade students must meet the state’s minimum reading standard or qualify for a good cause exemption to be promoted to fourth grade. This requirement ensures that students receive the early, focused support they need to become strong, confident readers—a milestone critical for future learning.

Registration Link:  https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_UJKugFDWRsGGYZFMPlM8qQ

For questions, contact:

• Carol Heringer – carol.heringer@ade.arkansas.gov

• Kiffany Pride – kiffany.pride@ade.arkansas.gov