The bill modifies Wyoming's reading assessment and intervention program for school districts, introducing new requirements and exemptions for high-performing districts. It mandates that all school districts conduct reading assessments for students in kindergarten through grade three at least three times a year. A new definition for "high performing school districts" is established, which allows these districts to be exempt from certain requirements, such as using state-approved screening instruments and specific reporting obligations, as long as they maintain a proficiency rate of at least 60% in grade three English language arts assessments for two out of three years.

Additionally, the bill outlines parental notification procedures regarding students' reading performance and the potential for retention in grades three and four if reading competencies are not met. It emphasizes the need for individualized reading plans for students identified with reading difficulties and details the responsibilities of school districts in providing necessary interventions. The legislation also allows parents to seek monetary damages if a school district fails to provide required notifications or develop adequate reading plans, with specific caps on damages and provisions for legal action regarding inadequate plans. Furthermore, it includes measures for professional development for educators and mandates annual reporting on statewide reading assessment performance, with an effective date of July 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 21-3-401