Administrative Memo: Clarification Regarding Literacy Measure in the A-F School and District Grading Framework

Missouri Department of Elementary & Secondary Education. sent this bulletin at 07/16/2026 11:00 AM CDT

Clarification Regarding Literacy Measure in the A-F School and District Grading Framework

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) received questions about the proposed A-F School and District Grading Framework and would like to provide clarity on a few key points.

As DESE’s response to Executive Order 26-01, the A-F School and District Grading Framework outlines a proposed approach for school and district grade cards, and was submitted to the governor’s office on June 30, 2026. The Framework remains subject to review, refinement, and approval by the Missouri State Board of Education before implementation of the grade cards.

Although preliminary grade cards are expected to be produced using earlier data, DESE anticipates grade cards for the 2026-27 school year data will be the first that contain all elements in the executive order.

A literacy measure is a required element of the grade cards. The Framework proposes the use of Lexile® scores from foundational reading assessments for grades 1-2 and from Missouri Assessment Program English Language Arts assessments for grades 3-8.

In compliance with Section 167.645, RSMo, all local education agencies are required to implement a state-approved assessment in the 2026-27 school year, and the foundational reading assessment data will be included as a measure in the A-F School and District Grade Cards for 2026-27 and beyond.

DESE will share updates regarding the A-F Grading Framework as the work moves forward.

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, veteran status, mental or physical disability, or any other basis prohibited by statute in its programs and activities. Inquiries related to department programs and to the location of services, activities, and facilities that are accessible by persons with disabilities may be directed to the Jefferson State Office Building, Director of Civil Rights Compliance and MOA Coordinator (Title VI/Title VII/Title IX/504/ADA/ADAAA/Age Act/GINA/USDA Title VI), 7th Floor, 205 Jefferson Street, P.O. Box 480, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0480; telephone number 573-522-1775 or TTY 800-735-2966; fax number 573-522-4883; email civilrights@dese.mo.gov.

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