In 2023, Wisconsin enacted Act 20, a law to enhance early literacy among students from 4K through 3rd grade. The primary objective is to ensure that all children achieve grade-level reading proficiency by the end of 3rd grade, laying a strong foundation for future academic success.

For parents and community members, Act 20 signifies a concerted effort to bolster early reading skills, ensuring that students receive high-quality, evidence-based instruction tailored to their needs. The law emphasizes collaboration between schools and families, recognizing that parental involvement is crucial in supporting children's literacy development. By focusing on early intervention and standardized assessments, Act 20 aims to address reading challenges promptly, setting students on a path toward academic achievement and lifelong learning.

Key Provisions of Act 20:

Science-Based Early Literacy Instruction: Schools must implement systematic and explicit instruction covering phonological awareness, phonemic awareness, phonics, writing, vocabulary, oral language, background knowledge, fluency, and reading comprehension. Notably, the use of three-cueing methods, which rely on meaning, structure, and visual cues for word recognition, is prohibited in grades K through 3.

Early Literacy Screening and Assessment: Beginning in the 2024-2025 school year, all students in grades 4K through 3 must undergo early literacy screening. Students scoring below the 25th percentile will receive diagnostic assessments within 10 days to identify specific reading challenges. Subsequently, a Personal Reading Plan (PRP) will be developed to provide targeted interventions to improve their reading skills.

You can find more detailed information on ACT 20,

from the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction by clicking this link.