Schools; Strong Readers Act; changing the number and timing of reading screenings for kindergarten students; effective date; emergency.

HB 1981, the "Strong Readers Act," requires Oklahoma public schools to screen all kindergarten through third-grade students for reading skills at specific times each year: beginning, middle, and end for grades 1-3, and middle and end (with first screening by December) for kindergarten. It mandates the State Board of Education to approve at least two screening tools for kindergarten and three for grades 1-3, ensuring they assess phonological awareness, decoding, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. Students not meeting grade-level reading targets must receive an individualized intervention plan within 30 days, including research-based instruction and access to free online literacy resources for families. The bill directly affects K-3 students in Oklahoma public schools and their educators, focusing on early identification and support for reading deficiencies.