The Oklahoma Senate has passed the Strong Readers Act in a 43–2 vote, sending Senate Bill 1778 to the governor, who’s expected to sign it.
The bill is a major overhaul of early‑grade reading instruction, kicking in for the 2027–28 school year. Under the new rules, third graders who score below basic on the state reading test and fail a second literacy assessment would be held back unless they qualify for a narrow set of exemptions.
Schools will now offer that third‑grade test to second graders so families can get an early read on where their kids stand.
The act creates a three‑tier system of reading support, from core instruction to intensive interventions like tutoring, summer programs, and transitional classrooms.
Parents must be notified within 30 days of any reading deficiency and get monthly updates, plus a read‑at‑home plan for kids receiving extra help.
Districts will also be required to employ trained reading specialists, supported by a new micro‑credential and a $3,000 stipend.
The state budget includes nearly $44 million for the rollout, with funding split among core instruction, intervention, and rewards for districts that improve reading scores.
