More 3rd Graders Are Expected to Be Held Back Under Michigan Law is a depressing Associated Press article:

Third graders who started school in recent weeks may be forced to repeat the grade next year if they struggle with reading, the result of a 2016 Michigan law whose most controversial provision kicks in beginning next spring.

The number of 3rd graders who are held back is expected to rise.

Nearly 700, or 0.67 percent, of the state’s 100,000-plus 3rd graders were retained in the last academic year. Researchers at Michigan State University estimate that between 2,000 and 5,000 students, or 2 percent to 5 percent, may be required to repeat 3rd grade under the terms of the law.

Between 7 percent and 11 percent of African-American 3rd graders may be held back. The retention policy may affect 12 percent to 20 percent of 3rd graders attending certain low-performing schools.

 

Check out The Best Resources For Learning About Grade Retention, Social Promotion & Alternatives To Both for all the research showing how bad this policy is for kids.