A new legislative bill, VA HB2777, introduced in Virginia on January 28, 2025, aims to enhance reading intervention services for students in the state. The bill focuses on creating structured reading plans for students who require additional support, ensuring that parents are actively involved in the development of these plans.

The core of VA HB2777 mandates that reading specialists collaborate with classroom teachers to develop individualized reading plans for students identified as needing intervention. These plans will document specific reading deficiencies, set measurable goals, and outline the evidence-based literacy instruction that students will receive. Parents will be notified before services commence and will receive a copy of the reading plan, fostering a partnership between educators and families.

Key provisions of the bill include the requirement for local school boards to adopt high-quality instructional materials and the establishment of a framework for assessing student progress through literacy screeners and Standards of Learning assessments. The Department of Education will provide guidance on creating these reading plans and develop a list of approved literacy curricula for early grades, ensuring that instruction aligns with science-based reading research.

While the bill has garnered support for its focus on improving literacy outcomes, it has also sparked discussions about funding and resource allocation. Critics express concerns over the potential strain on local school budgets and the need for adequate training for educators to implement the new requirements effectively.

The implications of VA HB2777 are significant, as it seeks to address the persistent issue of reading proficiency among students, particularly in the early grades. Experts believe that by providing structured support and involving parents in the process, the bill could lead to improved literacy rates and better educational outcomes for Virginia's youth.

As the legislative process unfolds, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the bill's progress and its potential impact on local schools and communities. The focus on evidence-based practices and parental involvement reflects a growing recognition of the importance of literacy in shaping students' futures.