NOTE: As provided in LFC policy, this report is intended for use by the standing finance committees of the legislature.  The Legislative Finance Committee does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of the information in this report when used in any other situation.

Only the most recent FIR version, excluding attachments, is available on the Intranet. Previously issued FIRs and attachments may be obtained from the LFC office in Suite 101 of the State Capitol Building North.

(Parenthesis ( ) Indicate Expenditure Decreases)

Duplicates HB28, Relates to HB2 and HB3

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

LFC Files

State Department of Public Education (SDE)

SUMMARY

     Synopsis of SFC Amendment

The Senate Finance Committee amendment strikes the appropriation of $5,000.0 from the bill.

Synopsis of Bill

Senate Bill 39 enacts a new section of the Public School Code to provide an early literacy program for students from kindergarten through third grade that are not reading at grade level.

Significant Issues

School districts must follow a program approval process and address specific program elements for students before or after school or on weekends. A school district's application must include a family involvement component that is based on family support principles.

An approved literacy program shall consist of a minimum of 90 hours of instruction per academic year for kindergarten students and a minimum of 180 hours of instruction per academic year for students in first, second and third grades.

Approved literacy programs shall demonstrate the following components: engaging and abundant literacy materials appropriate to the age of the students; effective instructional techniques that incorporate the most recent research in teaching reading; thorough integration of reading and writing activities; training for teachers and parents; and annual pre- and post-program assessments for students that clearly reveal student outcomes.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

Early literacy program units will be determined by multiplying the early literacy program MEM by the cost differential factor of .03.

Senate Bill 39 appropriates $5,000.0 from the general fund to SDE for expenditure in fiscal year 2001 to fund early literacy programs in the public schools. Any unexpended or unencumbered balance remaining at the end of fiscal year 2001 shall revert to the general fund.

DUPLICATION

This bill duplicates House Bill 28.

Included in HB3 and HB2 are appropriations of $11,500.0 to fund early childhood education initiatives such as full-day kindergarten, before- and after-school programs, summer school programs, or programs for early childhood and literacy development aimed at children in kindergarten through grade three.

POSSIBLE QUESTIONS

1. How many students are currently reading below grade level in grades K-3? What is the .03 cost differential factor based on?

CTF/njw