Students who are still behind in reading when they pass the crucial 3rd grade threshold can find themselves in a vicious circle: struggling to catch up on fundamental literacy skills as they face increasing academic demands that require those skills. Educators and experts in the science of reading have identified strategies to help older readers who need it. But the availability of these supports and the knowledge and ability of educators to use them remains uneven. This Education Week special report digs into what’s known about supporting older readers, how teachers and others can use these tools effectively, and what’s required to assure these resources are available equitably.