States and schools would support reading and notify parents

States receiving grants would use funds for reading instruction, early screening, teacher training, and other literacy activities. The listed work covers literacy support for children and students from early childhood through grade 12, as well as teacher preparation and school-based support. The requirements apply to States that receive a grant. At least 75 percent of grant funds must go to subgrants, though the two text versions differ on who may receive them. These rules apply to funds awarded on or after the Act’s enactment.

Covered schools would notify parents when a student is at risk in reading or is below grade level. This applies to schools receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act that include kindergarten through grade 8. The below-grade-level notice applies to students in grades 4 through 8 identified on the prior year’s summative assessment. Notices must include assessment or screening results, planned support for the student, and ways the parent can help at home. Schools must provide notices in the parent's primary language to the extent practicable. For grades 4 through 8 students identified on the prior year’s assessment, notice is due within 30 days after the school year begins. For students identified as at risk by screening, notice is due within 30 days after identification.

The Education Sciences Director would sponsor literacy research and share State reading and math assessment results with States and the public. The reports cover State results on the National Assessment of Educational Progress reading and math tests for grades 4 and 8. The research includes reading and writing instruction, classroom practices, out-of-school influences, and technology-related topics. The assessment reports would include State results, comparisons with other States, and trend information. The reports are due within five days after the Commissioner releases the biennial grade 4 and grade 8 reading and math results.