AZ HB2026

Establishes K-3 reading program administered by the Department of Education to improve reading proficiency in kindergarten and grades 1-3, with school districts and charter schools required to submit annual reading program plans by October 1.

Requires at least one K-3 teacher per school to receive dyslexia training by July 1, 2022, and mandates elementary and early childhood education teachers complete 45 classroom hours or 3 college credits in research-based science of reading and reading instruction within three years of certification.

Creates literacy endorsement requirement for all certificated teachers providing literacy instruction in kindergarten through grade 5, effective August 1, 2025 for new teachers and August 1, 2028 for existing teachers, requiring completion of evidence-based science of reading training and passage of literacy instruction assessment.

Requires third grade retention for students not demonstrating sufficient reading skills on statewide assessment, with exceptions for English learners with fewer than three years of instruction, special education students, and those showing adequate progress through alternative assessments.

Mandates school districts and charter schools provide evidence-based intervention and remedial strategies for students with reading deficiencies and issue annual written notifications to parents of K-3 students at risk of reading below grade level.