The bill seeks to improve reading and writing literacy for public elementary students in Washington by mandating the implementation of evidence-based instructional practices across school districts for students in kindergarten through fourth grade. It requires the establishment of a comprehensive literacy program that includes key components such as phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension, with full implementation expected by the 2027-28 school year. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the necessity of professional development for educators to ensure they are well-trained in these practices and introduces new requirements for teacher endorsements related to literacy competencies, which must be integrated into educator preparation programs by the same academic year.

Moreover, the bill addresses dyslexia support by mandating school districts to implement a multitiered system of supports for students showing signs of dyslexia, with evidence-based interventions provided by trained educators. It also requires school districts to notify parents about their child's dyslexia indicators and the interventions in place. The legislation includes provisions for intensive reading improvement strategies for students below grade level, emphasizing small group instruction and summer programs. The bill introduces new educator training requirements for those involved in these strategies and aims to enhance collaboration between teacher preparation programs and school districts, particularly in high-need areas. Additionally, it includes deletions of outdated provisions from existing law and recodifies sections of the Revised Code of Washington to streamline the framework governing teacher preparation and reading instruction.

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