Wisconsin Senate Bill SB990

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/2/24
• Refer: 2/2/24
• Report Pass: 2/14/24
• Engrossed: 2/20/24
• Refer: 2/20/24
• Enrolled: 3/14/24
• Chaptered: 3/26/24
• Passed: 3/26/24

Caption

Mandatory early literacy professional development.

Impact

If passed, SB990 would have significant implications for early literacy education across Wisconsin. By broadening the eligibility criteria for training providers to include cooperative educational service agencies with prior experience in delivering literacy training, the bill could increase accessibility to high-quality professional development. This change intends to enhance the capability of teachers to deliver effective reading instruction to students in grades K-3, aligning with state educational goals related to improved reading outcomes.

Summary

Senate Bill 990 focuses on enhancing early literacy professional development requirements in Wisconsin by expanding the allowable training providers for teachers and education staff. This bill amends provisions under Wisconsin Act 20, which mandates that certain educators receive training in science-based reading instruction by a specified deadline. The training includes the Lexia Learning Systems, LLC's Language Essentials program or another equivalent approved by the Center for Effective Reading Instruction. With the expansion in provider options, it aims to ensure that educators can access the necessary training through various accredited organizations or cooperatives, thus enhancing their effectiveness in teaching reading from a young age.

Contention

Debate surrounding SB990 may arise regarding the effectiveness and quality of training provided by new entities that may not have been previously recognized. Critics may express concerns that opening up training to a broader range of providers could lead to inconsistencies in instructional quality and fidelity to science-based methods. Supporters, however, argue that this flexibility will foster a more extensive network of support for educators and ultimately improve student literacy outcomes across diverse educational settings. Additionally, the discussion may touch on the adequacy of timeline expectations for compliance and the resources required for implementing the expanded training protocols.