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Senate advances $30 million K–3 reading initiative with accountability requirements
Summary
Senate Bill 230 advances after amendment to require district/charter reading plans with measurable objectives; the bill directs $5 million one-time and $25 million ongoing for a K–3 reading program distributed by a 60/40 formula (60% based on free/reduced lunch share; 40% on WPU).
Senate Bill 230, the Performance Plus reading achievement bill focused on getting students to grade‑level reading by third grade, moved forward in the Utah Senate on Feb. 23 after sponsors added accountability provisions and a formula for distributing funds.
Sen. James Evans described the bill as implementing the governor's priority to improve K–3 reading. The measure creates a program in which school districts and charter schools must submit a reading-proficiency improvement plan for approval by the State Board of Education. Plans must include assessment, intervention strategies, professional development and specific measurable goals tied to GAIN scores; districts will need to demonstrate improved student reading proficiency to continue receiving funds.
Funding in the bill includes a $5 million one‑time appropriation and an ongoing $25 million. Allocation is prescribed as 60% distributed based on the percentage of students who qualify for free or reduced-price lunch and 40% based on the weighted pupil unit (WPU). That formula generated floor questions about whether it double-counted high‑need schools and how districts and schools would allocate funds internally.
Sen. Hatch signaled support, planning an amendment to permit some funds to be used for technology. Sen. Valentine and others pressed sponsors on whether the distribution is at the district or school level and how plans would ensure funds reach the intended schools and students. Sen. Evans said districts would submit consolidated but specific plans for participating schools, and the State Office of Education would approve plans and provide model plans.
The Senate recorded the bill as passing second reading with 25 aye votes and no nays; it will proceed to third reading. Sponsors emphasized measurable outcomes and state oversight of how allocated funds are used.
Outcome: SB 230 passed second reading (25–0) and advanced to third reading.
