An act relating to educator preparation and evidence-based literacy instruction

This bill requires all licensed Vermont educators to complete professional learning on evidence-based literacy instruction, with current teachers finishing by January 2025 and new teachers completing it within their second year of teaching. It also mandates that educator preparation programs be reviewed to ensure they teach evidence-based literacy practices and incorporates a new examination to test candidates on literacy fundamentals. Additionally, the bill extends the Advisory Council on Literacy through 2027 and transfers rulemaking authority for educator licensing from the Standards Board for Professional Educators to the Agency of Education. These changes aim to improve literacy outcomes for Vermont students by updating teacher training and oversight requirements.