First graders opened up their first decodable book packs they’ll get to take home to reinforce classroom learning. It’s something all first graders in Iowa will be doing as part of a state-wide effort ...

"When it comes to actual ability to be able to read grade-level text, it's shockingly low," said reading tutor Nicki Pratti.

Almost 38,000 Iowa first ... grade students who attended a "department-funded high-quality summer reading program or a Learning Beyond the Bell out-of-school program" also will receive books.

As part of the District's Title I program, many Sioux City first graders got an early-Christmas present with books and bookbags, courtesy of the Iowa Department of Education. Part of the program's ...