Committee backs bill to expand early math and literacy screening and teacher training

A bill intended to bolster early literacy and math outcomes won committee support Friday as advocates highlighted data showing many Texas students below grade level in math.

House Bill 123, explained by Sen. Creighton, would support kindergarten readiness and early literacy and numeracy through screening and funding for teacher training. Gabe Grantham of Texas 2036 testified in favor, citing research that improving early math skills correlates with better long-term earnings and noting that 59% of Texas students are below grade level in math.

"We have the tools to boost math achievement in Texas," Grantham told the committee. He recommended expanding the bill to include up to eighth grade to strengthen middle-school math preparation for algebra.

Sen. West emphasized the need to maintain support for teacher academies during tight budget years, urging colleagues that the programs not be the first cuts when times get tough.

With no opposing testimony recorded, the committee closed public testimony. The chair laid out HB 123 as pending business; Sen. King moved that the bill be reported to the full Senate with a do-pass recommendation. The clerk recorded 10 ayes and 0 nays; the committee reported the bill favorably to the full Senate.