The Oklahoma Senate this week approved Senate Bill 841, the Strong Readers Act. Senator Adam Pugh is the bill’s author and says that the legislation enhances the literacy training for educators.
“I am committed to ensuring every child in Oklahoma has the foundational literacy skills needed for lifelong success,” Pugh said. “By expanding reading instruction to teachers in early childhood education, elementary education and special education with the latest research-based reading instruction, this legislation will help us move the needle on reading proficiency and overall academic achievement. Oklahoma’s future depends on our students being strong readers. Prioritizing evidence-based instruction gives both students and teachers the tools they need to succeed. This is a crucial step in ensuring every child, regardless of background or learning challenges can reach their full potential.”
The Strong Readers Act will better refine how students with characteristics of dyslexia are identified, modify the Statewide Literacy Revolving Fund to better support literacy initiatives, and directs the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education to integrate science-based reading instruction into early childhood, elementary, and special education teacher preparation programs.
Pugh is the chair of the Senate Education Committee.
SB 841 now moves to the Oklahoma House.
