The bill amends the Mathematics and Science Education Act to enhance the quality of mathematics education in public schools. It establishes the Mathematics and Science Bureau within the Public Education Department, which will monitor the implementation of instructional materials and professional development programs in mathematics and science. School districts and charter schools are required to develop mathematics professional learning plans, and the department will set standards for these plans. Additionally, the bill mandates that all public schools adopt a mathematics interventions process starting in the 2026-2027 school year, which includes the use of mathematics screeners for students in kindergarten through fifth grade and parental notification if a student is identified as having characteristics of math difficulty.

Key definitions are introduced, including "math difficulty," which encompasses various challenges students may face in mathematics, and "screener," referring to assessments of student performance. The bill also stipulates that mathematics coaches must hold specialist endorsements and outlines the responsibilities of the bureau, including promoting partnerships to improve mathematics education and assessing the outcomes of educational efforts. Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of timely communication with parents regarding their children's progress and the provision of interventions for students identified with math difficulties.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 22-15E-2, 22-15E-3
ED substitute: 22-15E-1, 22-15E-2, 22-15E-3
substitute: 22-15E-1, 22-15E-2, 22-15E-3