Math & reading standards and testing in Missouri
Updated June 2026
Missouri uses its own Missouri Learning Standards for ELA and math, developed by Missouri educators after moving away from Common Core. Students in grades 3-8 take the MAP Grade-Level Assessments each spring.
Does Missouri hold kids back in 3rd grade for reading?
No (currently). Missouri has no in-effect retention gate; a literacy bill with a retention provision was debated in the 2026 session but had not become law.
Standards
Missouri Learning Standards
Missouri 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 Missouri state test
MAP Grade-Level covers both math and reading in grades 3-8.
Reading the results
Spring.
Four levels: Below Basic, Basic, Proficient, Advanced.
On grade level means Proficient or Advanced on MAP ELA.
What's distinctive about Missouri
Missouri added plain-language grade-level labels to MAP reports and is weighing, but has not enacted, a Mississippi-style retention law.
Practice the skills, by grade
Whatever Missouri 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: Missouri Department of Education. Verified for the 2025-26 school year; policies can change, so confirm with your school.