New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S09747

Introduced
4/2/26  

Caption

Requires school districts to provide instructional programming and services in reading and literacy which are evidence based and aligned with state standards; requires teachers in grades pre-K through five to attend professional development courses in reading education.

Impact

The bill outlines that all teachers in grades pre-K through five must participate in professional development courses in reading education to ensure effective delivery of this evidence-based instruction. Furthermore, the legislation mandates the development of a list of approved curricula and professional development programs, which will be accessible to school districts and updated annually. The aim is to create a cohesive framework for teaching literacy that not only supports teachers but also enhances student learning outcomes across the board.

Summary

Bill S09747, also known as the 'Right to Read Act', aims to enhance early literacy education in New York by mandating that school districts provide evidence-based instructional programming and services aligned with state standards for reading and literacy. This new legislation requires school districts to focus on foundational reading skills, including phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary development, reading fluency, and comprehension. One of the significant aspects of the bill is its emphasis on utilizing curricula that have proven successful in improving reading competency across various student demographics.

Contention

Opposition to the bill may arise due to concerns about the feasibility and financial implications of implementing such widespread changes across school districts. Critics might argue that the shift to evidence-based curricula could marginalize existing programs that are locally preferred or culturally relevant. Additionally, the requirement for teachers to undergo continuous training may be perceived as an added burden, especially in districts facing budget constraints or staffing shortages. Balancing the need for standardized evidence-based practices with the flexibility to adapt to local educational requirements could be a contentious point among lawmakers and educators alike.

Companion Bills

NY A00078

Same As Requires school districts to provide instructional programming and services in reading and literacy which are evidence based and aligned with state standards; requires teachers in grades pre-K through five to attend professional development courses in reading education.

Previously Filed As

NY A00078

Requires school districts to provide instructional programming and services in reading and literacy which are evidence based and aligned with state standards; requires teachers in grades pre-K through five to attend professional development courses in reading education.

NY S07454

Requires school districts to provide instructional programming and services in reading and literacy which are evidence based and aligned with state standards; requires teachers in grades pre-K through five to attend professional development courses in reading education.

NY AB1454

Pupil literacy: credential program standards and professional development: instructional materials.

NY AB1194

Pupil literacy: administrative services credential program standards and professional development: instructional materials.

NY S08044

Directs the state librarian to provide guidance regarding evidence-based practices for literacy education to certain libraries.

NY S07891

Relates to requiring the department of education to provide school districts with a list of resources and instructional materials on media literacy; defines terms.

NY A08973

Requires public school students to take three semester-long financial literacy courses between sixth and twelfth grades.

NY A3821

Requires evidence-based early reading instruction be implemented in public schools.

NY SB517

Expanding the every child can read act reporting requirements and amending the Kansas blueprint for literacy to provide certain requirements for the state board of education, the state board of regents and school districts with regard to literacy education and reporting.

NY AB1121

Early literacy: professional development: instructional materials.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.