Oklahoma 2026 Regular Session

Oklahoma Senate Bill SB1292

Introduced

2/2/26

Refer

2/3/26

Report Pass

2/24/26

Refer

2/24/26

Caption

State Department of Education; directing the Department to establish the Oklahoma High Dosage Tutoring Program for students in kindergarten through three. Effective date. Emergency.

Impact

This legislation has the potential to significantly impact state educational statutes by mandating the creation of a system that prioritizes specialized tutoring for struggling students. By requiring electronic reporting of students' assessment results and establishing a revolving fund dedicated to this tutoring initiative, SB1292 ensures that resources will be allocated effectively to support education. This could lead to enhanced academic performance in literacy among young students, particularly in districts that have been designated for additional support under federal education programs.

Summary

Senate Bill 1292 establishes the Oklahoma High Dosage Tutoring Program, aimed at improving reading skills among students in prekindergarten through third grade. The program focuses on students who are at least one-half grade level behind in reading and proposes comprehensive tutoring sessions. High dosage tutoring is defined as in-person, subject-specific instruction conducted by qualified tutors, requiring minimum attendance of three hourly sessions each week for a period spanning the academic semesters. The legislation highlights the importance of reading proficiency at an early age, indicating a strong commitment to bolstering foundational skills in young learners.

Contention

Despite the advantages proposed by SB1292, the bill is likely to face scrutiny regarding its implementation and potential resource allocation. Critics may point to the effectiveness of high dosage tutoring versus traditional methods, questioning whether the program can deliver the promised improvements in reading skills. Additionally, concerns about the equitable distribution of program benefits among different school districts could arise, particularly in underfunded areas. Balancing the emphasis on reading skills with the diverse academic needs of students in various contexts will be a significant challenge as the state moves forward with this initiative.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OK SB245

State Department of Education; directing the Department to establish the Oklahoma High Dosage Tutoring Program. Effective date. Emergency.

OK HB1287

Schools; authorizing the Board of Regents of the University of Oklahoma to create a math tutoring pilot program for certain students; effective date; emergency.

OK SB244

Higher education; establishing the Program of American Civic Thought and Leadership at the University of Oklahoma; making an appropriation. Effective date. Emergency.

OK SB243

Schools; directing the State Department of Education to establish the School Innovation Grant Program; providing application process. Effective date. Emergency.

OK SB185

Higher education; creating the Oklahoma Department of Transportation Educational Assistance Act; providing for eligibility. Effective date. Emergency.

OK SB517

Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affiars; authorizing establishment of the ODVA Foundation. Effective date. Emergency

OK SB406

Oklahoma Higher Learning Access Program; directing certain designated individuals to annually evaluate students based on certain eligibility. Effective date. Emergency.

OK SB700

School athletics; directing the State Department of Education and the State Department of Health to develop certain guidelines regarding exertional heat-related illness. Effective date. Emergency.

OK HB1727

Higher education; Oklahoma Higher Learning Access Program; eligibility for children of certain teachers; effective date; emergency.

OK HB2032

Summer nutrition; Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer for Children program; Oklahoma Department of Human Services; State Department of Education; effective date; emergency.