Math & reading standards and testing in Vermont
Updated June 2026
Vermont adopted the Common Core State Standards for ELA and math. Students in grades 3-9 take the Smarter Balanced assessments each spring.
Does Vermont hold kids back in 3rd grade for reading?
No. Vermont has no 3rd-grade retention gate; promotion is local.
Standards
Common Core State Standards
Aligned to the Common Core State Standards, so grade-level skills match what most of the country teaches.
The key test
The Vermont state test
Smarter Balanced covers both math and reading in grades 3-9.
Reading the results
Spring.
Levels 1 to 4; Levels 3 to 4 are proficient.
On grade level means Level 3 or above on the state ELA assessment.
What's distinctive about Vermont
Vermont is moving from Smarter Balanced to its own Vermont Comprehensive Assessment while keeping a four-level scale.
Practice the skills, by grade
Whatever Vermont 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: Vermont Department of Education. Verified for the 2025-26 school year; policies can change, so confirm with your school.
Nearby states: Connecticut · Maine · Massachusetts · New Hampshire
Back to all states · Glossary