MT HB262

Establishes Montana state policy requiring all reading instruction in public schools to be based on scientifically researched literacy strategies

Mandates early literacy instruction be evidence-based, follow a scope and sequence, and be direct, systematic, explicit, and responsive

Requires reading instruction to include five core components: phonics (decoding/encoding), phonemic and phonological awareness, fluency (including oral language), vocabulary, and comprehension (including background knowledge)

Applies requirements to Board of Public Education accreditation standards, school district policies, curriculum development, and textbook/instructional material selection

Effective date of July 1, 2025