Senate Bill 616 mandates that school boards and independent charter schools in Wisconsin develop and implement a numeracy assessment plan for students in grades kindergarten through eight. This plan requires the administration of numeracy screening assessments at least three times each school year, starting in the 2026-27 school year, to identify students at risk of not meeting grade-level mathematics standards. The bill defines a numeracy screening assessment as a valid and reliable diagnostic tool and stipulates that students identified as at-risk must receive quality math tutoring. Additionally, personal mathematics plans must be created for students who are identified as at-risk on two consecutive assessments, ensuring they receive targeted interventions and support until they meet grade-level standards.

Furthermore, the bill requires school districts or independent charter schools where fewer than 51% of fourth graders score proficient or better in mathematics on the Forward Exam to develop a mathematics achievement plan. This plan must include an analysis of pupil performance data, measurable goals for improvement, evidence-based strategies, and professional development for educators. The Department of Public Instruction is tasked with creating a model mathematics achievement plan and maintaining a list of high-quality tutoring providers to support these initiatives.