HB 131 Summary

• Removes the automatic mandatory retention requirement for third grade students who score below Level 2 on the English Language Arts assessment, allowing retention only through discretionary "good cause exemptions."

• Establishes seven categories of good cause exemptions including limited English proficient students with less than 2 years of instruction, students with disabilities, and those who demonstrate proficiency through alternative assessments or portfolios.

• Requires intensive reading interventions for retained third grade students including a minimum of 90 minutes of daily scientifically research-based reading instruction and participation in summer reading camps.

• Mandates school districts establish policies for midyear promotion of retained students who demonstrate reading proficiency and implement an Intensive Acceleration Class for students scoring Level 1 on assessments.

• Takes effect July 1, 2017.