HB 2625 Summary

• Amends the Reading Sufficiency Act by replacing references to "Priority Academic Student Skills (PASS)" with "subject matter standards" for reading assessments in kindergarten through third grade

• Allows third-grade students demonstrating proficiency on approved reading screening instruments to avoid mandatory retention and receive notice that they have satisfied Reading Sufficiency Act requirements

• Establishes "probationary promotion" pathway for 2013-14 and 2014-15 school years whereby students with significant reading deficiencies can be promoted to fourth grade only with unanimous recommendation from a "Student Reading Proficiency Team" and superintendent approval

• Beginning in 2015-16 school year, students scoring unsatisfactory on third-grade reading portion of state criterion-referenced test must be retained unless exempt for good cause, and requires school districts to provide intensive instructional services and supports

• Requires annual reporting to State Department of Education on student promotions and retention, with public reporting of aggregate data to the Governor, legislative leadership, and education committees