SB94 Summary

• Postpones implementation of Alabama's third grade reading retention requirement from the 2021-2022 school year to the 2023-2024 school year.

• Requires each K-3 student with a reading deficiency to receive an individual reading improvement plan within 30 days of identification and intensive evidence-based reading interventions.

• Mandates local education agencies provide summer reading camps with at least 70 hours of instruction for all K-3 students identified with reading deficiencies.

• Establishes that third grade students must demonstrate sufficient reading skills for promotion to fourth grade through one of three options: standardized assessment scores, alternative assessment, or a student reading portfolio demonstrating mastery of state standards.

• Allows exemptions from mandatory retention only for specific categories including students with disabilities, English language learners with less than two years of English instruction, and students with disabilities who have received two or more years of intensive intervention.