Wisconsin Senate Bill SB41

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/3/23
• Refer: 2/3/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Reading readiness assessments and making an appropriation. (FE)

Impact

One of the main impacts of SB41 is the requirement for schools to report the number of pupils identified as at risk of reading difficulties to the Department of Public Instruction (DPI) by January 1 of each academic year. The bill ensures that these reports are summarized and presented to relevant legislative committees by April 1, increasing transparency and accountability within education systems. Additionally, the bill introduces a one-time appropriation of $500,000 to assist DPI in establishing a data tracking system for the assessments, highlighting a commitment to evidence-based educational practices.

Summary

Senate Bill 41, introduced in February 2023, focuses on enhancing reading readiness assessments for students enrolled in four-year-old kindergarten through second grade in Wisconsin. This legislation mandates that school boards and independent charter schools carry out these assessments annually by November 15. The assessments are designed to evaluate essential literacy skills such as phonemic awareness and letter sound knowledge. The bill aims to ensure that children at risk of reading difficulties are identified early and receive necessary interventions, thereby improving literacy outcomes across the state.

Contention

Despite its supportive goals, SB41 does introduce points of contention regarding the implications for local versus state control in educational assessments. Some educators and administrators may be concerned about the additional administrative responsibilities imposed by the requirement to track and report data. Debates may arise regarding the adequacy of the appropriated funds to meet the logistical needs of implementing these new tracking systems effectively and whether the bill adequately addresses the diversity of needs among different school districts.