The bill aims to improve reading and writing literacy for public elementary students in Washington by mandating the implementation of evidence-based instructional practices across school districts. It requires the establishment of a comprehensive literacy program for students in kindergarten through fourth grade, which must include key components such as phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension, to be fully operational by the 2027-28 school year. The legislation also emphasizes the necessity of professional development for educators, ensuring they are trained in these evidence-based practices, and addresses equity issues in literacy instruction, particularly for African American and Hispanic children who may be under-identified for dyslexia.

Additionally, the bill mandates that by February 15, 2022, the superintendent of public instruction must review and update best practices regarding dyslexia, and it requires school districts to implement a multitiered system of supports for students showing signs of dyslexia starting in the 2021-22 school year. The interventions must be evidence-based and provided by trained educators, with stricter requirements beginning September 1, 2027. The bill also outlines responsibilities for school districts in notifying parents about dyslexia indicators and interventions, emphasizes parental involvement in educational decisions, and introduces a beginning educator support team program for professional development. Furthermore, it introduces new requirements for teacher preparation programs and repeals existing laws related to reading programs, aiming to enhance the quality of reading instruction and support for educators and students, particularly in underserved communities.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.320.202, 28A.300.530, 28A.300.570, 28A.300.720, 28A.320.260, 28A.415.265, 28A.405.100, 28A.655.235, 28B.10.033