Senate Bill 241, also known as Early Literacy, introduces new mandated laws focused on helping children in kindergarten through 3rd grade improve reading skills, according to an October 9 statement from Bluff Elementary.
Under the new legislation, children in kindergarten through 3rd grade will undergo regular reading testing. If a student falls behind, schools will develop a personal learning plan and collaborate with parents to provide targeted assistance, such as tutoring, after-school reading, or summer support. Additionally, schools are required to notify parents in writing if a child falls behind in reading, provide progress updates, and offer suggestions for practicing reading at home.
For students in grades K–2 who struggle, schools and parents will discuss whether repeating a grade could assist the child in catching up. Starting in the 2029–2030 school year, students who finish 3rd grade without reading at grade level must repeat 3rd grade unless they meet specific exemptions, such as having an IEP, learning English, or completing summer reading programs.
Bluff Elementary reported that its principal and three teachers are fully trained in the science of reading, while other staff members are currently working toward training. The school is also training all staff, including paraeducators, on a targeted intervention system.
Parents whose children fall below or well below grade level in the Acadience reading assessment will receive a letter from the San Juan School District office. Following such a notification, a literacy team consisting of a classroom teacher, the principal, and potentially another member will develop an individualized reading plan, with a meeting scheduled to discuss the plan within 45 days.
