The bill amends the Idaho Code to enhance literacy and reading instruction for students in kindergarten through grade 3, introducing new definitions such as "dyslexia," "dyslexia screening tools," and "science of reading." It revises the Idaho Comprehensive Literacy Plan to ensure that all reading instruction is grounded in evidence-based practices, explicitly prohibiting the three-cueing system. School districts are mandated to provide reading intervention programs for students identified with reading deficiencies, which must align with the comprehensive literacy plan and include intensive instruction in essential reading skills. Additionally, the bill establishes a framework for accountability, requiring the state board of education to develop a comprehensive literacy plan that promotes collaboration among local education agencies for professional development and effective instruction.

The legislation also outlines specific requirements for literacy intervention programs, including a minimum of sixty hours of supplemental instruction for students scoring below basic and thirty hours for those scoring basic on reading assessments. It mandates the use of state board-approved adaptive learning technology tools and emphasizes the importance of dyslexia screening and intervention, requiring local education agencies to administer screening measures and provide evidence-based interventions. The bill includes provisions for funding distribution based on student enrollment and performance, ensuring that no district receives less funding than under previous attendance levels. It also establishes a methodology for calculating average daily attendance and support units for various educational programs. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, due to an emergency declaration.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 33-1802, 33-1804, 33-1805, 33-1806, 33-1807, 33-1809, 33-1811, 33-1002