Math & reading standards and testing in Alabama
Updated June 2026
Alabama replaced Common Core with its own Courses of Study and emphasizes early literacy and numeracy through the Alabama Literacy Act and Numeracy Act. Students in grades 2-8 take the ACAP Summative each spring in reading and math.
Does Alabama hold kids back in 3rd grade for reading?
Yes. Under the Alabama Literacy Act, 3rd graders who score below the ACAP reading cut score must be retained unless they pass a supplemental assessment, show proficiency by portfolio, or qualify for a good-cause exemption.
Standards
Alabama Courses of Study
Alabama sets its own grade-level expectations rather than using Common Core, though the core math and reading skills are similar grade to grade.
The key test
The Alabama state test
ACAP Summative covers both math and reading in grades 2-8.
Reading the results
Spring, typically April to May.
Levels 1 to 4; Levels 3 to 4 are proficient.
On grade level means Level 3 or above on ACAP reading; in 3rd grade, meeting the promotion cut score avoids retention.
What's distinctive about Alabama
The 2019 Literacy Act ties promotion to a single ACAP reading cut score, which the state has raised year over year.
Practice the skills, by grade
Whatever Alabama calls its test, the underlying math and reading skills are grade-level. Practice them directly:
Practice the skills behind the test
KangarooKiddo gives short, daily, grade-aligned math and reading practice mapped to Common Core, in sessions kids come back to. Honest progress for you, rewards they earn.
Source: Alabama Department of Education. Verified for the 2025-26 school year; policies can change, so confirm with your school.