Bill > H4672

This bill focuses on improving teacher preparation and student literacy in Massachusetts by establishing new requirements and guidelines for literacy instruction in kindergarten through third grade. The legislation defines "evidence-based literacy instruction" as instructional methods grounded in scientific research that demonstrably improve student learning outcomes, and mandates that school districts select high-quality curricula that include instruction in five key research-based areas of reading: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. The bill prohibits certain teaching methods like guessing words from context or picture cues and requires districts to use curricula approved by the state education department, with provisions for waiver applications for alternative or pilot programs. Additionally, the bill requires the education department to provide professional development resources, create a list of approved literacy instruction programs, and develop online training modules for teachers. School districts must now conduct literacy screening assessments at least twice per year for students in kindergarten through third grade, identify students significantly below grade-level benchmarks, and inform parents about screening results and intervention plans. The legislation also includes provisions for a teacher apprenticeship pilot program in high-needs districts and mandates ongoing reporting and evaluation of literacy instruction practices and outcomes.

House Committee on Ways and Means (House)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4672