PA
Pennsylvania House Bill HB998

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB998

Introduced
4/24/23  

Caption

Providing for evidence-based reading instruction.

Impact

The introduction of HB 998 is expected to significantly influence the state's education laws by requiring educational institutions to adopt and implement state-approved evidence-based reading curricula. This mandated approach aims to standardize reading instruction across the state, potentially improving overall literacy rates. Additionally, the legislation includes provisions for parental notification when a child is identified as having a reading deficiency, thus fostering greater involvement of families in their children's educational processes. Additionally, the bill outlines a requirement for the training of educators in implementing new reading instruction methods, indicating a commitment to ensuring that teachers are well-equipped to address students' literacy needs.

Summary

House Bill 998 aims to improve literacy rates in Pennsylvania by mandating evidence-based reading instruction for students in kindergarten through third grade. The bill introduces specific definitions and requirements related to reading instruction, including the adoption of a curriculum that aligns with the 'science of reading.' It emphasizes systematic and explicit instruction in various literacy skills such as phonemic awareness, decoding, vocabulary, and comprehension. The bill is designed to ensure that all students receive high-quality reading instruction to prevent reading deficiencies, including considerations for special education students. School entities are required to implement universal reading screenings and report on student progress annually.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 998 appears to be largely supportive among educators and administrators who recognize the importance of structured reading instruction in early education. Proponents argue that such evidence-based approaches could dramatically reduce reading deficiencies, such as dyslexia, among young students, ultimately leading to better educational outcomes. However, there could be concerns regarding the logistics of implementation and the adequacy of resources available for training educators, which some stakeholders may view as potential roadblocks to effective execution.

Contention

Opposition to HB 998 may arise from concerns about the one-size-fits-all approach to reading instruction, particularly regarding the needs of diverse learners and the flexibility for teachers to utilize creative methods in their classrooms. Discussions may also center on the potential for increased mandates and regulations to overwhelm school entities, given the financial implications and need for adequate training and materials. These points of contention highlight the tension between establishing standardized practices and maintaining the flexibility to cater to individual student needs.

Latest HB998 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB700

In evidence-based reading instruction, further providing for definitions and for evidence-based reading instruction curriculum and providing for reading screening, for reading deficiency and identification, for school entity duties and reading intervention plan, for parent notification, for grants to school entities, for funding and for reporting; and establishing the Evidence-based Reading Instruction Restricted Account.

PA SF1257

Evidence-based literacy instruction requirement

PA HF1013

Evidence-based literacy instruction required, report required, and money appropriated.

PA HB684

In evidence-based reading instruction, further providing for definitions, providing for school entity duties related to evidence-based reading instruction, for school entity duties related to reading screening, for reading deficiency identification and parental notification, for reading intervention plans, for grant program, for funding, for reporting, for accountability and for construction.

PA SB801

In certification of teachers, further providing for teacher

PA HB319

Virginia Literacy Act; early student literacy, evidence-based literacy instruction, etc.

PA SB616

Virginia Literacy Act; early student literacy, evidence-based literacy instruction, etc.

PA S07454

Requires school districts to provide instructional programming and services in reading and literacy which are evidence based and aligned with state standards; requires teachers in grades pre-K through five to attend professional development courses in reading education.

PA HB262

Establish state policy on evidence-based reading instruction

PA S0204

An act relating to supporting Vermont's young readers through evidence-based literacy instruction

Similar Bills

DE HB69

An Act To Amend Title 14 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Reading Competency.

PA SB801

In certification of teachers, further providing for teacher

PA SB700

In evidence-based reading instruction, further providing for definitions and for evidence-based reading instruction curriculum and providing for reading screening, for reading deficiency and identification, for school entity duties and reading intervention plan, for parent notification, for grants to school entities, for funding and for reporting; and establishing the Evidence-based Reading Instruction Restricted Account.

MN SF1273

The Read Act

MA H579

To promote high-quality comprehensive literacy instruction in all Massachusetts schools

MA S263

To promote high-quality comprehensive literacy instruction in all Massachusetts schools

MN SF3698

Read Act amendment

MN HF629

Read Act established, schools required to use approved literacy curriculum, literacy specialists required, report required, and money appropriated.