"Research shows that children who read well in the early grades are far more successful in later years; and those who fall behind often stay behind when it comes to academic achievement (Snow, Burns and Griffin 1998). Reading opens the door to learning about math, history, science, literature, geography and much more. Thus, young, capable readers can succeed in these subjects, take advantage of other opportunities (such as reading for pleasure) and develop confidence in their own abilities. On the other hand, those students who cannot read well are much more likely to drop out of school and be limited to low-paying jobs throughout their lives. Reading is undeniably critical to success in today's society." - Ed.Gov NCLB Site

Learn what science has discovered about learning to read. Learn how scientists have found that effective reading instruction for children with dyslexia actually permanently 'rewires' their brain in a way that can be seen.
Learn about how efficient reading skills are crucial to middle and high school success in other subjects including ordinary subjects such as math and science.

Learn what reading curriculums have been proven to teach children with certain disabilities to read, including children with a clinical diagnosis of mental retardation, and those that have not. Learn about scientifically-validated approaches to measuring if kids are learning to read automatically (fast and correctly) with frequent 'probes', sometimes weekly and how third grade is a crucial element in future success as an adult.

Some Reading Links (to the science)

Reading Fluency Norms from Hasbrouck and Tindal for grade 1 to 8 (2006).
Available download link; http://tinyurl.com/d7vcxd

Original framework and printable download at:
http://www.readnaturally.com/howto/orftable.htm
Or direct download the pdf at: http://tinyurl.com/cywqt8

Explanation of screening, diagnosing and progress monitoring reading issues using 'ORF' (Oral Reading Fluency).
at http://www.readingrockets.org/article/11200

Hasbrouck, J. (2006). For Students Who Are Not Yet Fluent, Silent Reading Is Not the Best Use of Classroom Time. American Educator, Summer 2006, 30(2).
Full article is available at: http://tinyurl.com/cpl756

Info from Read Naturally on using ORF benchmarks to measure Fluency and great links:
http://www.readnaturally.com/howto/orftable.htm