Sixth grade achievement is an important indicator of progress as students begin transitioning as middle school students. Performance in sixth grade often indicates performance in middle school and can lead to a predictor of high school readiness.

The achievement gap refers to the difference in academic performance or educational attainment between groups of students, examined here by student socioeconomic status, gender, and race/ethnicity. Early intervention is key in closing achievement gaps, making sure that gaps are addressed before high school is crucial in order to improve student graduation rates and proficiency at graduation.