Wisconsin Act 20: A Closer Look
Wisconsin Act 20 is a state law designed to improve early literacy skills among elementary school students. Its primary goal is to ensure that all students are reading at or above grade level by the end of third grade.
Key Provisions of Act 20
- Early Literacy Assessments:
- Universal Screening: Requires schools to administer universal screening assessments to all students in grades 4K-3 to identify those who may need additional support.
- Progress Monitoring: Mandates ongoing progress monitoring assessments to track students' growth and inform instructional decisions.
- High-Quality Early Literacy Instruction:
- Evidence-Based Practices: Requires schools to implement evidence-based early literacy instruction that aligns with the science of reading.
- Tiered Interventions: Emphasizes the use of tiered interventions, including:
- Tier 1: General education instruction for all students.
- Tier 2: Targeted interventions for students who need additional support.
- Tier 3: Intensive interventions for students who require more specialized assistance.
- Early Intervention and Support:
- Early Identification: Requires schools to identify students who are at risk of reading difficulties early in their education.
- Intervention Programs: Provides funding for early intervention programs to support struggling readers.
- Professional Development: Mandates professional development for teachers and other school staff to improve their knowledge and skills in early literacy instruction.
Impact of Act 20
While the full impact of Act 20 is still being evaluated, it has the potential to significantly improve early literacy outcomes for Wisconsin students. By focusing on early identification, high-quality instruction, and targeted interventions, the law aims to address reading difficulties before they become more severe.
Overall, Act 20 is a comprehensive approach to improving early literacy in Wisconsin schools, with the ultimate goal of ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed in reading and learning.
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