Bill > SB1338

This bill amends existing law to remove language establishing a three-year pilot program for a literacy instructional team, instead making the team a permanent fixture within the State Department of Education. The team, comprised of regional literacy leads and literacy specialists, will continue to provide support and technical assistance to school districts on literacy instruction, dyslexia, and related disorders, with a focus on helping teachers identify and address the needs of students struggling with reading. The bill clarifies that if a prioritized school district declines assistance from this team, it will not be eligible for certain funds. Furthermore, the requirement for the State Department of Education to submit a report evaluating the literacy instructional team's impact on student reading proficiency and offering recommendations for the Strong Readers Act will now be submitted biennially, starting December 31, 2026, instead of annually as was implied by the pilot program structure. The bill also includes an emergency clause, meaning it will take effect immediately upon passage and approval, and a separate section stating its general effective date is July 1, 2026.

Budget and Finance, Education

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb1338&Session=2600