Bill > HB684

This bill establishes comprehensive requirements for evidence-based reading instruction in Pennsylvania schools, focusing on improving reading skills for students in kindergarten through third grade. Starting in the 2026-2027 school year, school entities must adopt an evidence-based reading instruction curriculum, approve professional development training for educators, and implement a universal reading screening process that occurs three times per school year. The bill requires schools to identify students with reading deficiencies, notify parents about these deficiencies, and develop individualized reading intervention plans aimed at helping students read at grade level by the end of third grade. To support implementation, the bill creates a grant program to help schools cover training and resource costs, and mandates annual reporting to the Department of Education about reading screenings, interventions, and professional development. The legislation also establishes accountability measures, allowing the department to monitor school progress and implement corrective actions if students are not demonstrating reading skill improvements. Additionally, the bill expands the definition of "parent" to include legal guardians and ensures that students with disabilities, limited English proficiency, and gifted students are appropriately assessed, while protecting existing employee and labor organization rights.

Education

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=684