Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

Georgia Senate Bill SB211

Introduced
2/16/23  
Refer
2/21/23  
Introduced
2/16/23  
Report Pass
3/1/23  
Refer
2/21/23  
Engrossed
3/6/23  
Report Pass
3/1/23  
Report Pass
3/15/23  
Engrossed
3/6/23  
Enrolled
4/5/23  
Report Pass
3/15/23  
Chaptered
4/13/23  
Enrolled
4/5/23  
Chaptered
4/13/23  

Caption

Georgia Council on Literacy; establish

Impact

The formation of the Georgia Council on Literacy will memorialize the state's commitment to enhancing reading proficiency among school children and adults, with specific goals associated with reading outcomes at third, fifth, and eighth grades. The council is charged with monitoring existing literacy goals, researching best practices, and making legislative recommendations tailored to improve literacy rates, particularly focusing on low-income and minority students, as well as those with dyslexia. This bill is expected to reinforce and realign educational policies and funding aimed at fostering literacy throughout Georgia.

Summary

Senate Bill 211 aims to establish the Georgia Council on Literacy, which is tasked with improving literacy outcomes for students across the state. The bill recognizes that current literacy rates in Georgia are insufficient to support the workforce needs and emphasizes the necessity for a comprehensive study of state resources and educational strategies that impact literacy. It provides for the council's membership structure, which includes representatives from various educational sectors, along with defined powers and duties aimed at addressing literacy issues from early childhood through postsecondary education.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding SB 211 appears to be positive, with support from various stakeholders who recognize the integral role of literacy in economic development and personal success. Educators and advocates for children's education have expressed optimism that this legislative initiative will lead to improved literacy rates and higher educational standards. However, there may also be underlying concerns regarding the adequacy of state support and the practical implementation of the council's recommendations, particularly regarding funding and resource allocation.

Contention

While there is broad support for the aims of SB 211, potential areas of contention may arise around how effectively the council can achieve its goals within the state's existing educational framework. Stakeholders may question the allocation of resources and the level of engagement from local communities in the literacy improvement initiatives. Additionally, the bill’s success will depend on the ability of the council to collaborate effectively with existing educational agencies and adapt to the diverse needs of students across Georgia.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

GA HB538

Georgia Early Literacy Act; enact

GA SB248

Georgia Council on Library Materials Standards; establish and provide

GA 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.

GA SB233

'The Georgia Promise Scholarship Act'; establishment of promise scholarship accounts

GA SB1543

Relating to the establishment of the Interagency Literacy Council for the study, promotion, and enhancement of literacy in this state.

GA SB312

Department of Economic Development; establishment of the Georgia Peach Walk of Fame Advisory Council; provide

GA HB4328

Relating to the establishment of the Interagency Literacy Council for the study, promotion, and enhancement of literacy in this state.

GA 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.

GA SB131

Georgia Board of Health Care Workforce; Georgia Health Care Professionals Data System; establishment

GA SB93

"Georgia Early Literacy Act"; the three-cuing system from inclusion in high-quality instructional materials or structured literacy; prohibit

Similar Bills

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MI HB4961

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HI HR35

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HI SR211

Urging The Department Of Education To Incorporate Media Literacy Into The Existing State Public School Curriculum.

HI HCR40

Urging The Department Of Education To Incorporate Media Literacy Into The Existing State Public School Curriculum.

HI SCR218

Urging The Department Of Education To Incorporate Media Literacy Into The Existing State Public School Curriculum.

NJ S3219

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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.