The Oklahoma House has approved sweeping legislation aimed at improving student literacy and strengthening the state’s Strong Readers Act.
Senate Bill 1778, authored by House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, passed with an 87-5 bipartisan vote. The measure focuses on earlier identification of reading deficiencies, expanded teacher training and additional support to help students read at grade level by third grade.
“Before third grade, students learn to read. After third grade, they read to learn,” Hilbert said, warning that falling behind early can have long-term consequences for students.
The bill includes statewide reading screenings, targeted interventions based on the science of reading, and new accountability measures tied to grade advancement. It also increases requirements for teacher preparation programs and creates additional funding support for schools and literacy efforts.
Lawmakers have already outlined more than $50 million in related education investments, including funding for reading instruction, teacher training and at-home learning support.
Supporters point to declining reading performance as a key driver behind the legislation. State data shows only 27 percent of Oklahoma third graders are reading at or above grade level.
The measure now returns to the Senate to consider House changes. If approved, it would move to the governor for final consideration.
