Missouri House passes Reading Instruction Act banning three-cueing system

The Missouri State Legislature has introduced House Bill 941, known as the "Reading Instruction Act," aimed at reforming reading instruction in public schools. Introduced by Representative Lewis on February 19, 2025, the bill seeks to establish evidence-based reading programs for students in kindergarten through fifth grade, emphasizing scientifically proven methods to enhance literacy.

The primary provisions of the bill mandate that all public and charter schools implement reading programs grounded in research, focusing on essential components such as phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. Additionally, it requires that new teachers instructing reading in grades K-3 receive adequate training in these areas to ensure effective delivery of the curriculum.

A significant aspect of House Bill 941 is its prohibition of the "three-cueing system," a controversial reading instruction method that relies on meaning, structure, and visual cues. The bill explicitly states that public school districts cannot use this method or any related practices for teaching reading from kindergarten through grade twelve. This provision has sparked debates among educators and literacy advocates, with some arguing that the three-cueing system has its merits, while others assert that it lacks empirical support.

The implications of this legislation are noteworthy. By mandating evidence-based practices, the bill aims to improve reading outcomes for Missouri students, potentially addressing longstanding literacy challenges. However, the ban on the three-cueing system may lead to pushback from educators who favor diverse instructional strategies.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its impact on teaching methodologies and student literacy rates will be closely monitored. If passed, House Bill 941 could reshape reading instruction in Missouri, aligning it more closely with current educational research and best practices.