Math & reading standards and testing in Colorado
Updated June 2026
Colorado uses its own Colorado Academic Standards, which incorporate Common Core but were independently adopted and revised. Students in grades 3-8 take the CMAS each spring in ELA and math.
Does Colorado hold kids back in 3rd grade for reading?
Limited. The READ Act requires a parent and school meeting to consider retention for K to 3 students with a significant reading deficiency, but retention is a last resort, not a mandatory gate.
Standards
Colorado Academic Standards
Colorado 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 Colorado state test
CMAS covers both math and reading in grades 3-8.
Reading the results
Spring, typically April.
Four levels: Did Not Yet Meet, Partially Met, Met, Exceeded Expectations.
On grade level means Met or Exceeded Expectations on CMAS ELA.
What's distinctive about Colorado
The READ Act centers on early identification of a significant reading deficiency and individual READ plans.
Practice the skills, by grade
Whatever Colorado 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: Colorado Department of Education. Verified for the 2025-26 school year; policies can change, so confirm with your school.
Nearby states: Alaska · Arizona · California · Hawaii
Back to all states · Glossary