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Board adopts statewide-mandated K–2 reading-risk screener (Amira) for county alternative programs
Summary
Trustees approved adoption of Amira as the K–2 universal screening assessment for risk of reading difficulties for county alternative-education programs; staff said the county assessment team will be trained and will administer the screener to eligible kindergarten through second-grade students.
The Kern County Board of Education voted to adopt the Amira universal screening assessment for kindergarten through second grade as the county office’s screening tool for risk of reading difficulties.
Board members were told this screening requirement is new statewide and that adopting Amira will align the county’s alternative-education and Valley Oaks programs with the tool used by other local providers. Staff said the county’s assessment team, which serves Valley Oaks and the district alternative-education programs, will be trained to administer the screener and to follow up when a screening indicates a need. The board approved the adoption by voice vote with no recorded opposition.
Trustees asked why the screening is limited to grades K–2 rather than higher grades. Staff explained the policy intent: early grades are focused on learning-to-read foundational skills, and the universal screener is designed to identify early indicators that warrant intervention or further diagnostic evaluation. Staff clarified that older students who show reading concerns are assessed through other, established diagnostic procedures.
Staff also told trustees that implementation will vary by district and charter; local districts will separately adopt an assessment for next year, and county staff will support administration in county-operated programs. Staff said parents will be informed of screening results consistent with local practice.
