Bill > S1145

This bill establishes an optional Early Literacy Readiness Program for school districts and public charter schools in Idaho, designed to help children aged 4 and 5 develop strong reading skills before entering kindergarten. The program focuses on foundational reading skills including phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and text comprehension, and must be age-appropriate and evidence-based, aligning with the science of reading. A key component is parental involvement, allowing parents to participate in their child's learning either at school or at home. The program aims to support students in reading at or above grade level by the end of third grade and achieving proficiency on statewide literacy assessments. School districts can use existing literacy intervention funds to support the program, and the state board of education will conduct annual evaluations to assess the program's cost and effectiveness. The bill will go into effect on July 1, 2025, and is considered an emergency measure to address early childhood literacy needs.

Education, Justice

State Affairs Committee (S)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/S1145/