The bill seeks to enhance literacy among elementary school students in Missouri by repealing several existing sections of law and enacting five new sections. Key provisions include the establishment of the "Missouri Advisory Board for Educator Preparation" (MABEP) to guide educator preparation programs, and a requirement for teacher education programs to align literacy coursework with evidence-based reading instruction. Starting July 1, 2027, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education will conduct annual reviews of these programs, with non-compliant ones ineligible to certify new teachers. The bill also introduces the "Evidence-based Reading Instruction Program Fund" to support literacy initiatives in school districts and charter schools, mandating the development of reading success plans for students with reading deficiencies. Additionally, the bill establishes the "Missouri Universal Reading Literacy Assessment" for students in kindergarten through grade three, categorizing reading proficiency into five levels and requiring assessments during three annual windows. Students identified with reading deficiencies must receive tailored reading success plans and intensive instruction, with retention in grade three mandated for those not meeting proficiency standards unless they qualify for good cause exemptions. The bill emphasizes the need for intensive reading interventions, including the establishment of acceleration classes for retained students, and mandates public disclosure of reading curriculum materials. The repeal of Section 186.080, which established a literacy advisory council, indicates a shift in how literacy instruction and policy improvements will be managed moving forward.

Statutes affected:
Introduced (6330H.01): 161.097, 161.241, 167.268, 167.340, 167.645, 186.080