Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that requires a third grade student to obtain "reading proficiency" to qualify for the next grade level, effective for the 2016-2017 school year.

Highlights:

• Requires third grade students to obtain “reading proficiency” to qualify for the next grade level, with the exception of the following students (Sec. 1):
• Students whose score is in the fiftieth percentile or higher on a department-approved test;
• Students who are English language learners proficient in another language;
• Students who are English language learners with less than 2 years of instruction in English;
• Students who have a disability; and
• Students who have already been retained once in kindergarten, first, or second grade.

• Defines “reading proficiency” as a score on the statewide standards-based test or screening test that is higher than the lowest level established by the Public Education Department (Sec. 1).

• Requires a school district to establish reading improvement and remediation programs for students in kindergarten through third grade who do not demonstrate reading proficiency, effective the 2015-2016 school year (Sec. 1).

• Requires a school district to place a student who does not demonstrate reading proficiency for 2 consecutive school years into an alternative program designed by the school district (Sec. 1).

Full Bill Text