Florida’s 3rd-Grade Reading Scores: A Call for Support
Third-grade reading proficiency is one of the most critical indicators of a child’s long-term academic success—yet in Florida, too many students are falling behind. Recent statewide data shows that nearly half of Florida’s 3rd graders are not reading at grade level, a statistic that raises serious concerns for educators, families, and communities alike.
These numbers reflect more than test performance—they point to gaps in access, resources, and instructional support. As schools adapt to new assessment standards and technological demands, students who lack foundational literacy skills risk being left behind. This moment calls for urgent, innovative solutions to help all learners thrive.
When students have the tools to learn digitally, practice typing, and engage with adaptive reading programs, their confidence and performance grow, and thanks to partnerships with community-minded organizations like RBOA, a Leon County Charter school, The School of Arts and Sciences, is gaining the support they need to meet this challenge head-on.
How Computers & Digital Literacy Support 3rd Grade Reading Growth
Access to computers and computer literacy can significantly improve 3rd-grade reading levels in several evidence-based ways. Access to devices reduces the divide between digitally fluent students and those left behind. With equitable access, schools can deliver interactive e‑books, adaptive readers, and automated feedback—tools shown to accelerate learning for struggling readers.
Computer-based Resources for Reading Intervention
Computer-based tools like IXL aid in Tier 2 instruction for students working below grade level in reading.
IXL is a widely used, adaptive online learning platform that supports students in mastering essential reading and language arts skills from PreK through 12th grade. While not a core curriculum, many Florida schools use IXL as a supplemental intervention tool, especially for students who need targeted skill reinforcement in reading comprehension, vocabulary, and grammar
“IXL helps my struggling readers build confidence by practicing the same skills we cover in small groups—just at their own pace.”
— Mrs. Landry, 3rd Grade ELA Teacher, Miami-Dade County
Epic Reading is beneficial for 3rd-grade students reading below grade level because it offers a wide range of supports that can meet struggling readers where they are. Many books on Epic include a “Read-to-Me” feature that reads the text aloud while highlighting words. This helps reinforce word recognition, fluency, and pronunciation, which are essential for readers below grade level. Audiobooks let students develop comprehension skills even if they can’t decode complex words yet. This keeps them engaged with stories and content appropriate for their age.
However, it is difficult to use these platforms without reliable access to computers effectively—and when students lack basic computer literacy, valuable instructional time can be lost as they struggle with simple tasks like opening a browser, identifying a charger, understanding what a URL is, or logging into a device.
Beyond Reading – There’s Writing
As 3rd graders shift from learning to read → reading to learn, they also begin writing more. As part of the new B.E.S.T. writing assessments, Florida confirmed that all students in grades 4–10 are now using computer-based testing platforms to type their responses. This shift makes it critical that students have regular access to computers throughout the school year—not only for practice, but to develop the digital skills needed for success.
Computer-based Resources for Writing
TypingClub is a powerful tool for building computer literacy in students, especially in elementary grades where foundational tech skills are essential. Students learn the layout of the keyboard, including letters, numbers, and function keys. This is a foundational skill for all future computer use—whether for testing, writing, or online learning. By mastering proper finger placement and typing technique, students improve their speed and accuracy. This reduces frustration and makes computer-based tasks (like writing essays or using learning platforms) more efficient.
Without strong computer literacy, students may struggle with basic functions like typing, using a browser, or navigating the test interface, which can negatively impact their scores regardless of writing ability. Ensuring equitable access to technology and building tech fluency early are now essential components of academic preparation.
Community Support in Action: RBOA’s Contribution
Recognizing the urgent need for increased access to technology in education, RBOA recently donated 20 Chromebook computers to The School of Arts and Sciences in Leon County, Florida. This generous contribution is helping close the digital divide for students—particularly in 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades—by providing the tools necessary to build reading comprehension, fluency, and computer literacy. These new devices are already being integrated into classrooms to support daily reading instruction, interactive learning programs, and keyboarding practice.
Lifting Learning Through Access
For 3rd graders working to reach reading benchmarks, and for 4th and 5th graders preparing for typed writing assessments, these Chromebooks represent more than just technology—they’re a pathway to academic empowerment. With reliable access to computers, students can engage in individualized reading platforms, such as Epic and IXL, as well as typing instruction through TypingClub, all of which have been proven to support literacy development. Thanks to RBOA’s investment in local education, students are set up for success in today’s tech-driven learning environment.
FAQs
- Why is RBOA involved in supporting 3rd-grade reading and computer literacy?
At RBOA, we believe that strong communities fuel strong futures. As a digital marketing agency rooted in education and public service, we’re proud to invest in local students by helping bridge the digital divide. Donating Chromebooks to schools aligns with our mission to support innovation, access, and equity—values that also guide our work for clients across Florida and beyond. - How does this initiative align with RBOA’s services?
Digital transformation is at the core of what we do. From helping clients build user-friendly websites to managing omnichannel campaigns, our work is built on the same principles driving student success: access, clarity, and confidence in a digital world. By supporting computer literacy and reading tools, we’re not only helping students learn—we’re reinforcing the skills today’s workforce (and future clients!) will rely on. - What does RBOA offer for organizations that want to expand digital access or promote educational causes?
RBOA offers a full range of digital marketing services, including web design, content strategy, email marketing, advertising, and social media management. We partner with nonprofits, associations, and education-focused organizations to help them amplify their mission, reach donors or supporters, and implement campaigns that drive meaningful impact in their communities. - Can RBOA help my organization tell its story or spotlight our community work?
Absolutely. Storytelling is a key part of successful marketing, and we specialize in creating engaging, mission-driven content that resonates. Whether you’re launching a campaign to raise awareness, highlighting your corporate social responsibility efforts, or sharing success stories like this one, RBOA can help craft and distribute content across digital platforms. - How can I work with RBOA on a digital project that supports education or equity?
We’d love to connect. Whether you’re a school, nonprofit, foundation, or mission-driven business, RBOA offers strategic guidance and creative execution to help bring your digital goals to life. Schedule an exploratory call to discuss your needs, and let’s find a way to support learning, access, and opportunity together.