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Right to Read Act of 2023
12/13/2023, 8:38 AM
Summary of Bill HR 2889
Specifically, the Right to Read Act of 2023 would allocate funds to states and school districts to support the implementation of effective reading instruction, including phonics-based approaches and interventions for struggling readers. The bill also emphasizes the importance of early intervention and support for students with dyslexia and other learning disabilities.
In addition, the legislation includes provisions for monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of literacy programs, as well as promoting family engagement in reading and literacy activities. The bill also calls for the establishment of a National Center for Effective Reading Instruction to provide resources and support for educators. Overall, the Right to Read Act of 2023 seeks to improve literacy outcomes for students across the country by ensuring that all students have the opportunity to develop strong reading skills. The bill has garnered bipartisan support in Congress and is seen as a critical step towards addressing the literacy crisis in the United States.
Congressional Summary of HR 2889
Right to Read Act of 2023
This bill expands access to school libraries and literacy skills support for elementary and secondary school students. It also outlines certain constitutional rights and liability protections related to school libraries.
Specifically, the bill reauthorizes through FY2028 (1) the Comprehensive Literacy State Development Program, which provides grants to ensure high-quality instruction and effective strategies in reading and writing for children through 12th grade; and (2) the Innovative Approaches to Literacy Program, which provides grants to support the development of literacy skills in low-income communities.
Additionally, the bill allows Supporting Effective Instruction State Grants to be used to assist local educational agencies (LEAs) and schools in recruiting, hiring, and retaining state-certified school librarians.
Further, the bill authorizes states and LEAs to use Student Support and Academic Enrichment grants for programs and activities that promote the development of digital literacy and information literacy skills.
The Department of Education (ED) must direct the National Center for Education Statistics to biennially collect data on school libraries.
ED must require an assurance from each state and LEA receiving certain funds confirming that it will (1) protect the First Amendment rights of students in school libraries, and (2) provide equal protection in the conduct of school libraries in compliance with the requirements of the Fourteenth Amendment and nondiscrimination laws.
The bill also provides liability protection to teachers, school librarians, school leaders, paraprofessionals, and other staff for actions that conform with state or local policies regarding the right to read.
