Math & reading standards and testing in Nebraska
Updated June 2026
Nebraska never adopted Common Core, using its own College and Career Ready Standards. Students in grades 3-8 take the NSCAS each spring in ELA and mathematics.
Does Nebraska hold kids back in 3rd grade for reading?
No. Nebraska has no 3rd-grade retention gate; promotion is local.
Standards
Nebraska College and Career Ready Standards
Nebraska 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 Nebraska state test
NSCAS covers both math and reading in grades 3-8.
Reading the results
Spring.
Three levels: Developing, On Track, College & Career Ready Benchmark.
On grade level means On Track or CCR Benchmark on NSCAS ELA.
What's distinctive about Nebraska
NSCAS uses three readiness-oriented levels rather than the typical four-level scale.
Practice the skills, by grade
Whatever Nebraska 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: Nebraska Department of Education. Verified for the 2025-26 school year; policies can change, so confirm with your school.