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Bill > SB841
OK SB841
OK SB841Strong Readers Act; modifying use of Statewide Literacy Revolving Fund; modifying requirement for teacher preparation program students to complete certain training. Effective date. Emergency.
summary
Introduced
02/03/2025
02/03/2025
In Committee
04/16/2025
04/16/2025
Crossed Over
03/24/2025
03/24/2025
Passed
05/27/2025
05/27/2025
Dead
Signed/Enacted/Adopted
05/27/2025
05/27/2025
Introduced Session
2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
An Act ENROLLED SENATE BILL NO. 841 By: Pugh of the Senate and Hasenbeck of the House An Act relating to the Strong Readers Act; amending 70 O.S. 2021, Section 6-187, as last amended by Section 164, Chapter 452, O.S.L. 2024 (70 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 6-187), which relates to teacher certification; requiring individuals seeking certification in early childhood, elementary, or special education to successfully complete certain assessment beginning on certain date; amending 70 O.S. 2021, Section 1210.508C, as amended by Section 5, Chapter 411, O.S.L. 2024 (70 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 1210.508C), which relates to reading assessments; modifying purpose for administration of certain screening instruments; amending 70 O.S. 2021, Section 1210.508F, as amended by Section 8, Chapter 411, O.S.L. 2024 (70 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 1210.508F), which relates to reading competencies for teachers; adding adjuncts; removing requirement that certain teacher candidates pass certain assessment prior to graduation; requiring persons seeking certification in certain areas to successfully complete certain assessment as a condition for certification; removing certain reporting requirements; adding adjuncts to required instruction; amending Section 1, Chapter 411, O.S.L. 2024 (70 O.S. Supp. 2024, Section 1210.508I), which relates to the Statewide Literacy Revolving Fund; modifying use of the fund; modifying requirement for teacher preparation program students to complete certain training; providing an effective date; and declaring an emergency. SUBJECT: Reading
AI Summary
This bill modifies Oklahoma's literacy education and teacher certification requirements, with a primary focus on improving reading instruction and assessment. Starting in the 2025-2026 school year, the bill requires individuals seeking certification in early childhood, elementary, or special education to successfully complete a comprehensive reading instruction assessment. The legislation mandates that teacher preparation programs provide explicit training in the science of reading, focusing on five key elements: phonological awareness, decoding, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. The bill also updates screening requirements for students in kindergarten through third grade, aiming to identify and support students with reading difficulties earlier. Additionally, it creates a mechanism for teachers to earn a micro-credential in reading science, which will be reflected on their teaching certificates. The Statewide Literacy Revolving Fund will be used to support these training programs, with a goal of ensuring that new teachers are well-equipped to provide effective reading instruction to students with diverse learning needs.
Committee Categories
Education
Sponsors (2)
Last Action
Approved by Governor 05/23/2025 (on 05/27/2025)
Official Document
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