Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

Kansas Senate Bill SB438

Introduced
2/1/24  
Refer
2/2/24  
Report Pass
2/20/24  
Engrossed
2/28/24  
Refer
2/28/24  
Refer
3/11/24  
Report Pass
3/25/24  
Enrolled
4/25/24  

Caption

Establishing the Kansas blueprint for literacy and a literacy advisory committee, directing the board of regents to appoint a director of literacy education, requiring the board of regents and board of education to collaborate on a literacy micro-credential, providing university presidents and deans of education oversight over postsecondary literacy courses, requiring a plan to establish centers of excellence in reading, requiring the board of education to submit annual reports to the legislature on literacy goals; establishing the Kansas education opportunity scholarship to replace the Kansas ethnic minority scholarship, removing limits on Kansas nursing service scholarship awards and modifying the interest rate terms and repayment obligations for such awards, eliminating the requirement to subtract other aid from the state payment for the AO-K program, modifying financial limitations on Kansas hero's scholarship awards and broadening eligibility requirements for such awards.

Impact

The implications of SB438 on state laws are considerable, specifically regarding the regulation of literacy education. It mandates the state board of regents and the state board of education to collaborate on developing a new micro-credential for educators that reflects best literacy practices. Additionally, it calls for the implementation of an advanced assessment system to measure reading skills in students, which establishes standards for educational institutes. This shift aims to ensure a higher quality of literacy education throughout Kansas, benefitting future generations and meeting workforce needs as the state anticipates significant job growth by 2030.

Summary

Senate Bill 438 focuses on establishing a comprehensive framework for literacy improvement in Kansas through the Kansas Blueprint for Literacy. This bill proposes a significant investment of $10 million to develop a statewide literacy plan, which involves the state board of regents overseeing the creation of a literacy advisory committee aimed at enhancing literacy education across all levels. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of employing evidence-based practices in teaching reading, eliminating outdated methodologies, and ensuring accountability in literacy instruction within educational institutions.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB438 is mainly positive among educational advocates and legislators prioritizing literacy. Proponents argue that enhancing literacy education is critical for fostering academic success and economic growth in Kansas. However, some educators express concerns over the proposed elimination of certain teaching methodologies, fearing it might limit instructional flexibility and creativity in classrooms.

Contention

Notable points of contention stem from potential conflicts between the requirements set forth in the bill and the current practices in some educational institutions. Critics argue that while the intention to improve literacy is commendable, mandating specific approaches and assessments may impose constraints on educators and may not adequately accommodate diverse learning needs. The ongoing discussion reflects the broader tension between standardization and educational autonomy, highlighting the need for a balanced approach that honors both academic rigor and individual teaching styles.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

KS HB2839

Establishing a blueprint for literacy to create a literacy advisory committee, appoint a director of literacy education, require the state board of regents and the state board of education to collaborate on a literacy micro-credential and professional development, authorize the state board of regents to recommend diagnostic and formative literacy assessments, authorize university presidents and deans of education oversight over postsecondary literacy courses and require a plan to establish centers of excellence in reading.

KS SB532

Establishing a blueprint for literacy to create a literacy advisory committee, appoint a director of literacy education, require the state board of regents and the state board of education to collaborate on a literacy micro-credential and professional development, authorize the state board of regents to recommend diagnostic and formative literacy assessments, authorize university presidents and deans of education oversight over postsecondary literacy courses and require a plan to establish centers of excellence in reading.

KS SB544

Establishing a Kansas education opportunity scholarship program to replace the Kansas ethnic minority scholarship program.

KS HB2645

Senate Substitute for HB2645 by Committee on Education - Removing limits on the number and amount of awards under the nursing service scholarship program, modifying the interest rate terms for repayment obligations under such program, abolishing the nursing service scholarship review committee and modifying the financial limitations on awards under the Kansas hero's scholarship act and broadening the eligibility requirements for such awards.

KS HB2843

Establishing a scholarship task force to study scholarship programs and creating the Kansas academic excellence scholarship program to replace the Kansas ethnic minority scholarship program.

KS HB2644

Establishing uniform interest rate provisions for service scholarships administered by the Kansas board of regents that have repayment obligations as a part of the terms and conditions of such scholarship and authorizing the Kansas board of regents to recover the costs of collecting such repayment obligations and charge fees to cover the costs of administering such scholarship programs.

KS HB2132

Expanding the eligible fields of study and establishing a maximum scholarship amount for certain private postsecondary educational institutions in the Kansas promise scholarship act.

KS HB2539

Removing the Kansas residency requirement for eligibility for a Kansas promise scholarship and modifying the definition of part-time student under such program.

KS SB31

Enacts the Board Scholarship Reporting Act relative to scholarships awarded by members of public postsecondary education management boards.

KS HB2137

School boards; divisionwide literacy plans.

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