This bill focuses on enhancing mathematics instruction and support within Iowa's education system. It mandates the director of the Department of Education to develop and distribute family-centered resources to aid student mathematics development at home, as well as to create a comprehensive state mathematics plan by July 1, 2025, aimed at improving student proficiency in mathematics. Additionally, the bill requires the director to provide evidence-based professional development for teachers in schools identified as needing support and to publish a list of valid mathematics screeners for teachers to identify students in grades K-6 who may require extra assistance.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that school districts must assess all K-6 students' mathematics proficiency at least three times a year using the approved screeners. If a student is identified as persistently at risk in mathematics, the district must implement a series of interventions, including regular assessments and personalized mathematics plans, until the student meets proficiency benchmarks. The bill also requires higher education institutions to include mathematics teaching methods in their practitioner preparation programs. It specifies that the costs associated with these mandates will be covered by state school foundation aid, ensuring compliance with state funding requirements.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 256.9, 256.16