To promote high-quality early literacy instruction and improve student outcomes
Impact
This legislation has significant implications for the state's education system. By establishing a framework that requires the alignment of curricula with evidence-based literacy instruction, the bill seeks to improve student outcomes and address reading deficiencies at an early stage. Specific guidelines will be created to ensure districts can identify students in need of support, thereby allowing for tailored interventions that align with students' literacy development needs. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education will also publish reporting requirements to monitor schools' compliance with the new standards beginning in the 2025 academic year.
Summary
House Bill 698, titled 'An Act to promote high-quality early literacy instruction and improve student outcomes', is designed to enhance the quality of early literacy education across Massachusetts. The bill mandates that all school districts adopt evidence-based literacy instructional materials and curricula, ensuring that teachers are equipped with the tools and training necessary to support effective literacy instruction for students in pre-kindergarten through third grade. The bill emphasizes scientifically-based reading research and aims to align teaching methods with proven practices that facilitate reading and writing achievements.
Contention
While proponents of the bill view it as a necessary step towards improving educational outcomes and ensuring every child has access to high-quality literacy instruction, some critics may argue about the feasibility of enforcing such requirements across diverse school districts. Concerns could also arise regarding the adequacy of resources necessary for professional development and the ongoing support needed for educators to implement these evidence-based approaches effectively. The bill's success will largely depend on the commitment from state education officials, school administrators, and teachers to collaborate on these reforms.
Providing affordable and accessible high-quality early education and care to promote child development and well-being and support the economy in the Commonwealth
Requires DOE to establish working group on student literacy; mandates universal literacy screenings for kindergarten through grade three students; requires professional development for certain school district employees.
Requires DOE to establish working group on student literacy; mandates universal literacy screenings for kindergarten through grade three students; requires professional development for certain school district employees.
Urges State Board of Education to require school districts to incorporate financial literary instruction into mathematics and social studies curriculum.