Math & reading standards and testing in Georgia
Updated June 2026
Georgia uses its own Georgia Standards of Excellence, which evolved from Common Core but were rewritten and have since been further revised. Students in grades 3-8 take the Georgia Milestones each spring in ELA and math.
Does Georgia hold kids back in 3rd grade for reading?
Limited. Under Georgia's promotion law, 3rd graders must show grade-level reading on the Milestones ELA; those who do not are offered remediation and a retest, and may be retained if they still fall short.
Standards
Georgia Standards of Excellence
Georgia 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 Georgia state test
Georgia Milestones covers both math and reading in grades 3-8.
Reading the results
Spring, typically April to May.
Four levels: Beginning, Developing, Proficient, Distinguished Learner.
On grade level means Proficient Learner or above on Georgia Milestones ELA.
What's distinctive about Georgia
Georgia ties promotion review to reading in grades 3, 5, and 8, with a mandated retest before any retention.
Practice the skills, by grade
Whatever Georgia 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: Georgia Department of Education. Verified for the 2025-26 school year; policies can change, so confirm with your school.