Strong Readers Act; references; legislative findings; declaring intent of the Legislature; reading screenings; reading deficiencies; parent notifications; State Department of Education; reading panel; alternate reading assessments; promotion to fourth grade; retaining third grade; good-cause exemptions; intensive reading instruction; intensive acceleration class; reporting requirements; teacher training requirements; eighth-grade reading level; driver license; remedial reading for driver licenses; alternative reading proficiency tests; motorcycle licenses; testing site requirements; documentation requirements; out of state test results; school enrollment, completion, or lawful excuse for minors to obtain a driver license; violations; alternate route to obtain driver license; employer fines; attendance officers; Department of Public Safety; license cancellation; definitions; exceptions; forms; effective date; emergency.
What changed between versions
All provisions related to the Strong Readers Act, including reading screenings, third-grade retention policies, driver's license reading proficiency requirements, and teacher training on reading instruction were completely removed.
New provisions establishing a detailed minimum salary schedule for certified personnel with specific amounts based on years of experience and degree level (Bachelor's, Master's, Doctor's, National Board Certification).
New requirements mandating that school districts provide written notification to teachers if retirement benefits would result in a salary below the minimum schedule, with specific timing requirements (30 days prior to employment or benefit election).
Added definition of 'fringe benefits' to exclude certain retirement contributions and flexible benefit allowances from the salary calculation.
Established that the new salary schedule begins with the 2025-2026 school year.
