New Albany implements House Bill 33 for enhanced English language arts programming

The New Albany-Plain School District Board of Education held a significant meeting on January 27, 2025, focusing on the implementation of House Bill 33, which aims to enhance English language arts (ELA) programming across the district. This legislation, passed in July 2023, mandates that all teachers and administrators in Ohio complete professional development in the science of reading by June 30, 2025.

During the meeting, Mr. Emery, the director of elementary education, provided an update on the district's progress in aligning its ELA curriculum with the new requirements. He reported that over 80% of the necessary staff have already completed the required training, which ranges from 7 to 22 hours depending on their roles. This proactive approach positions the district ahead of the state deadline, ensuring that educators are well-equipped to support students in their reading development.

House Bill 33 also allocates funds for teacher stipends as they complete their professional development, with amounts varying based on their positions. Additionally, the law requires districts to adopt ELA materials that align with the science of reading, which emphasizes systematic and explicit instruction based on cognitive research about how children learn to read.

In preparation for these changes, the district has been reviewing various ELA programs to find a comprehensive solution that meets the new standards. Mr. Emery highlighted that the district has narrowed its options to two promising programs: Great Minds' Witten Wisdom and Fish Tank Learning's ELA. Both programs are designed to support diverse learners, including English language learners and students with special education needs.

The district's allocation from the state for these new materials is approximately $215,506, but the anticipated cost for a comprehensive K-5 ELA program exceeds $400,000. The board plans to present a recommended program for adoption in the coming months, aiming for implementation by August 2025.

This meeting underscored the district's commitment to enhancing literacy education and ensuring that all students receive the support they need to succeed. As the board continues to navigate the implications of House Bill 33, community members can expect further updates on the adoption of new instructional materials and the ongoing professional development of educators.