If enacted, SB 145 will contribute to both the identification of students who need additional support in reading skills and the implementation of targeted interventions for those students. It emphasizes the need for educational institutions to report assessment results directly to parents, ensuring transparency and parental involvement in their children's education. This initiative reflects a commitment to enhancing literacy rates and ensuring that students are equipped with essential reading skills by the time they transition from primary education into more advanced grades.
Summary
Senate Bill 145, also known as the Reading Competency Benchmark Assessment, proposes changes to the grade levels that are subject to a statewide reading competency benchmark assessment in Utah. Specifically, this bill lowers the upper grade limit from grade 6 to grade 8. The aim is to ensure that all students from kindergarten through the 8th grade are properly assessed in their reading competencies at multiple intervals during the academic year, namely at the beginning, middle, and end of the school year. By doing this, the legislation seeks to identify students who may be lagging in reading skills and to provide them with necessary interventions.
Contention
While the bill has garnered significant support, especially from educators advocating for improved reading literacy, there may be concerns regarding the administrative impact on school districts and charter schools. Critics could argue that the requirement for frequent assessments may place additional burdens on educational staff and resources, potentially detracting from instructional time. Furthermore, questions around the adequacy of funding for the proposed benchmarking system could arise, particularly in light of the potential need for educational technology providers to be contracted to facilitate these assessments.
An Act Proposing An Amendment To Article Viii, ยง 6 Of The Delaware Constitution Relating To Limiting The Annual Growth Of Expenditures In The State Operating Budget.