Educators and researchers have long recognized the importance of mastering reading by the end of third grade. Students falling short often falter in later grades and are four times more likely than proficient readers to fail to graduate from high school on time.

What’s being done and what more is needed, to insure that local schools are helping students make the grade? The Library and American Public Square address the questions in the latest in a series of mannerly discussions of local issues. Panelists include Andrea Gelfuso, an assistant professor in the School of Teaching, Learning, and Leadership at the University of Central Florida, and Judy Heeter, president of Pathfinder Consulting and vice president of the board of directors of Turn the Page KC. University of Missouri-Kansas City professor Scott Helm moderates. Co-presented by American Public Square.