Education, Alabama Literacy Act, postpone implementation of the third grade retention requirments from 2021-2022 school year until 2025-2026 school year, Sec. 16-6G-5 am'd.
Impact
The postponement of the retention requirement has generated varied responses among educators, stakeholders, and policymakers. Proponents argue that this extension allows for a more gradual and effective implementation of reading programs that align with the science of reading. They believe this could lead to better student outcomes by addressing individual reading deficiencies before enforcing retention. Conversely, opponents express concerns that delaying the retention criteria could enable systems to overlook pressing literacy issues, potentially leaving many students unprepared for subsequent educational demands. The debate reflects broader concerns about educational equity and accountability within the state's school systems.
Summary
SB78 aims to amend the Alabama Literacy Act by postponing the implementation of the third-grade retention requirement until the 2025-2026 school year. This decision comes in light of concerns regarding the preparedness of students to meet the reading proficiency standards mandated for promotion to the fourth grade. The bill maintains the emphasis on ensuring that students receive a comprehensive core reading program and are provided with necessary interventions to address reading deficiencies, particularly for struggling readers and those diagnosed with dyslexia. By delaying the retention requirement, the bill provides additional time for educators and school districts to adapt their instructional strategies and support systems to better meet the needs of their students.
Contention
Notably, concerns have emerged regarding the preparedness and training of teachers to implement effective reading interventions. With the new timeline, there is an expectation that the state will enhance professional development initiatives for educators in the science of reading and dyslexia awareness. Additionally, the effectiveness of the literacy programs offered during the upcoming years will be closely monitored to evaluate their success before the retention policy is enforced. Critics argue that maintaining focus on the initial implementation of reading proficiency standards is crucial and fear that the delay might soften the urgency of addressing literacy gaps among early learners.
Restoring Educational Advancement of Completing High School (REACH) Act, providing for a nontraditional high school diploma option for students 17 years of age and older who withdraw from school through the Adult Education Division of the Alabama Community College System; to provide for the sharing of data on students who drop out of high school; and to provide that participating students are eligible for driver's licenses
True School Choice for Alabama Act, established to provide education savings accounts (ESAs) for parents of children to use in providing education services for those children.
Literacy Act, reading proficiency, third grade retention requirement postponed until 2023-2024 school year, additional duties to State Superintendent of Ed. re implementation of law, Sec. 16-6G-5 am'd.
Literacy Act, definitions further provided, membership and duties of the Literacy Task Force, duties and functioning of the Alabama Committee on Grade Level Reading, Secs. 16-6G-2 to 16-6G-5, inclusive, am'd.
Education: school districts; requirements related to the retention of certain grade 3 pupils; provide for. Amends sec. 1280f of 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1280f).
Education: teachers and administrators; performance evaluation systems for public school teachers and school administrators; modify. Amends secs. 1248, 1249, 1249a, 1249b & 1280f of 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1248 et seq.) & adds secs. 1250a, 1531l & 1531m. TIE BAR WITH: SB 0380'25