Establish state policy on evidence-based reading instruction

This bill establishes state policy requiring all early literacy instruction in Montana public schools to be based on scientifically researched methods. It prohibits teaching reading strategies that rely on context, pictures, or memory, specifically banning the three-cueing system. Instead, the law mandates that reading instruction include five core components: phonics, phonemic awareness, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension, all taught in a direct and systematic way. The bill defines evidence-based instruction as methods supported by high-quality research showing they improve student outcomes. These requirements become effective on July 1, 2025.