House File 784 is a legislative act aimed at enhancing mathematics instruction and support within Iowa's education system. The bill introduces several new provisions, including the development and distribution of family-centered resources to aid student mathematics learning at home, and the provision of evidence-based professional development for teachers in schools identified as needing support. Additionally, it mandates the creation of a comprehensive state mathematics plan by July 1, 2025, which will focus on improving student proficiency through systematic teaching methods. The bill also requires the Department of Education to publish a list of valid mathematics screeners for use by teachers to identify students in need of additional support.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing law to include preparation in mathematics teaching methods for higher education institutions offering practitioner preparation programs. It establishes a requirement for school districts to assess students in kindergarten through grade six at least three times a year to evaluate their mathematics proficiency and outlines specific interventions for students identified as persistently at risk. The act specifies that the costs associated with these mandates will be covered by state school foundation aid, ensuring that no additional state funding is necessary for implementation. The provisions related to the comprehensive state mathematics plan are effective immediately upon enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 256.9, 256.16
Reprinted: 256.9, 256.16
Enrolled: 256.9, 256.16