Nevada Assembly Bill AB187

Nevada 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/20/23
• Refer: 2/20/23
• Failed: 4/15/23

Caption

Prohibits certain instruction in public schools. (BDR 34-565)

Impact

AB187 is set to amend existing educational statutes in Nevada, directly impacting how reading is taught to early learners. Schools that do not comply with the prohibited instructional practices may have 10% of their state apportionment withheld until they remedy the violation. This financial consequence aims to ensure adherence to the new instructional standards without infringing upon the operational autonomy of school districts. In essence, AB187 seeks to shift educational practices toward evidence-based instructional methods for young students.

Summary

Assembly Bill 187 (AB187) aims to regulate reading instruction practices in public schools and charter schools within the state. Specifically, it prohibits the use of the three-cueing system model of reading, which includes strategies based on meaning, structure, syntax, and visual cues, as well as the reliance on visual memory for teaching word recognition in grades K-2. The bill mandates that school districts or charter schools utilizing such instructional methods must cease their use or face financial penalties imposed by the state education authorities.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding AB187 appears to be mixed among educators, lawmakers, and the public. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary step toward improving early literacy outcomes by preventing ineffective methods from being used in classrooms. They maintain that establishing strict guidelines will enhance the educational foundation for young students. Conversely, opponents have expressed concerns that the bill could limit teachers' instructional flexibility and undermine their professional judgment about the best practices for their students' learning needs.

Contention

Key points of contention regarding AB187 center around the efficacy of the three-cueing system itself, which has generated debate among education experts. Critics argue that the bill may impede innovative teaching strategies, while supporters stress the importance of grounding reading instruction in research-backed methodologies. The conversation reflects broader discussions about educational standards, teacher autonomy, and how best to equip young learners for reading success in a rapidly changing educational landscape.