Math & reading standards and testing in Tennessee
Updated June 2026
Tennessee replaced Common Core with its own Tennessee Academic Standards. Students in grades 3-8 take the TNReady portion of the TCAP each spring in ELA and math.
Does Tennessee hold kids back in 3rd grade for reading?
Yes. Under Tennessee's 2021 law, 3rd graders must score Meets or Exceeds on TCAP ELA to be promoted automatically; Approaching or Below requires intervention (summer camp or tutoring) or a retake, or retention.
Standards
Tennessee Academic Standards
Tennessee 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 Tennessee state test
TCAP / TNReady covers both math and reading in grades 3-8.
Reading the results
Spring, with a grade-3 ELA retake.
Four levels: Below, Approaching, Meets, Exceeds Expectations.
On grade level means Meets or Exceeds on TCAP ELA; Approaching or Below in 3rd grade triggers intervention requirements.
What's distinctive about Tennessee
Tennessee uniquely lets students avoid retention by completing a summer learning camp and/or high-dosage tutoring, not only by retesting.
Practice the skills, by grade
Whatever Tennessee 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: Tennessee Department of Education. Verified for the 2025-26 school year; policies can change, so confirm with your school.