The bill amends Section 33-1807 of the Idaho Code to enhance the Literacy Intervention Program for students in kindergarten through grade 3 who score basic or below basic on reading assessments. It mandates that each school district and public charter school establish an extended time literacy intervention program that includes a minimum of 60 hours of supplemental instruction for students scoring below basic and 30 hours for those scoring basic. The program must utilize evidence-based interventions, include parental input, and align with the Idaho comprehensive literacy plan. Additionally, the state board of education is tasked with selecting adaptive learning technology providers and ensuring that these programs are evaluated annually for effectiveness.
Significant changes include the deletion of the requirement for professional development to be provided to districts and schools on best practices for literacy instruction, replaced with a provision that the state department of education will provide professional development over multiple years based on the science of reading. The bill also modifies the reporting requirements to include information on participation and effectiveness of the intervention program, which must be presented annually to the state board of education, the legislature, and the governor. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, following the declaration of an emergency.
Statutes affected: Bill Text: 33-1807