Bill > HB1981

This bill modifies the Strong Readers Act by changing the reading screening requirements for kindergarten students. Specifically, instead of screening kindergarteners at the beginning, middle, and end of the school year, the bill now mandates screenings only at the middle and end of the school year, with the first screening to be provided no later than December. Beginning in the 2025-2026 school year, the State Board of Education must approve at least two screening instruments for kindergarten students and three screening instruments for first through third grade students. The screening instruments must assess phonological awareness, decoding, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension, and be accompanied by a data management system that provides student, class, grade level, and school building profiles. The bill maintains the existing provisions for providing reading intervention plans for students who are identified as having reading deficiencies, including developing individualized plans, notifying parents, and offering supplemental instructional services. The legislation aims to improve early literacy by ensuring targeted, research-based reading support for students who are struggling with reading skills, while also reducing the overall number of screenings for kindergarten students.

Education

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb1981&Session=2600