Education: curriculum; science of reading requirements; modify. Amends sec. 1280f of 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1280f).
What changed between versions
Mandates the use of 'science of reading' and structured literacy methods for all reading instruction and interventions, explicitly prohibiting methods that rely on guessing words from context or pictures.
Requires districts to screen all students in grades K-3 for dyslexia and reading difficulties at least three times per year, with specific timelines for new students and older students showing signs of struggle.
Establishes strict qualifications for literacy coaches, requiring a bachelor's degree, advanced coursework in reading, and specific expertise in scientifically based reading research.
Requires individual reading improvement plans for any student identified with a reading deficiency, involving teachers, principals, and parents in the creation and monitoring process.
Sets a deadline of January 1, 2026, for the Department of Education to publish lists of approved evidence-based curricula and screening tools, and August 1, 2027, for districts to update their assessment systems.
Introduces new legal definitions for key terms including 'dyslexia,' 'science of reading,' 'structured literacy,' and 'code emphasis' to ensure consistent application of the new standards.
Clarifies that English learners assessed at an entering proficiency level are exempt from mandatory dyslexia screening unless staff determine the student shows signs of dyslexia not caused by language barriers.
