West Virginia Senate Bill SB274

West Virginia 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/23
• Refer: 1/18/23
• Refer: 1/20/23
• Engrossed: 2/14/23
• Refer: 2/15/23
• Refer: 3/7/23

Caption

Third Grade Success Act

Impact

If enacted, SB274 will significantly amend existing educational standards in West Virginia by formalizing a framework that promotes reading proficiency by the end of third grade. It introduces specific requirements for county boards of education concerning data-driven interventions and parental involvement in monitoring students' academic progress. This move is aimed at identifying and supporting students with deficiencies early on, thereby reducing the likelihood of academic failure and dropouts. Schools are required to provide structured programs that facilitate this goal, indicating a systemic shift in how early education is approached in the state.

Summary

Senate Bill 274, known as the Third Grade Success Act, aims to enhance academic achievement among students in West Virginia, particularly focusing on early literacy and numeracy for grades kindergarten through three. The bill establishes a comprehensive approach that emphasizes evidence-based reading instruction, the 'science of reading', to support young learners, especially those with learning disabilities like dyslexia and dyscalculia. It mandates that every school implement a multi-tiered system of support and requires the use of high-quality instructional materials that align with state standards.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding SB274 appears to be supportive among educational professionals and lawmakers who recognize the vital importance of literacy at an early stage. Advocates argue that the bill addresses critical issues of academic inequities faced by students with learning disabilities. However, concerns have been raised regarding the enforcement of no-promotion policies and how these may affect children who struggle academically. While support is evident for initiatives aimed at improving education quality, the stringent retention policies may draw criticism for potentially penalizing younger students at a vulnerable stage of their learning.

Contention

Notable points of contention within the discussions around SB274 include the implications of mandatory retention for students who do not achieve grade-level proficiency by the end of third grade. Critics argue that this punitive approach could disproportionately affect students with learning disabilities or those from disadvantaged backgrounds, ultimately hindering their educational journey. Furthermore, debates continue surrounding the adequacy of resources and training for teachers to effectively implement the policies outlined in the bill, raising questions about the practical applications of such comprehensive reforms within existing school structures.