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Committee advances regulation to require K–3 screening three times a year and tighter reporting for students at risk of reading difficulties
Summary
The committee recommended permission to adopt amendments to COMAR 13A.03.08 that require universal K–3 screening three times annually, an MSDE-approved screener list, diagnostic follow-up for identified students with parent notification within 30 days, and earlier state reporting.
The Education Policy Committee voted to recommend permission to adopt amendments to COMAR 13A.03.08, Students at Risk for Reading Difficulties, after a presentation from Dr. Tesia Brewer, Executive Director of Literacy Programs and Initiatives.
Dr. Brewer said the amendments align the regulation with the State’s comprehensive pre-K-through literacy policy adopted in 2024. Key changes include requiring universal screening for all students in kindergarten through third grade three times per year, use of MSDE-approved screening instruments, clearer language mandating diagnostic surveys for students identified as at risk, explicit reference to Student Reading Improvement Plans, and naming the multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS) to clarify intervention pathways.
On timing, Dr. Brewer said elements beginning with notation F in the regulation start in the 2026–27 school year; diagnostic screening for students identified as at risk will occur in that implementation window. She told members that schools and districts must notify parents within 30 days after a student is identified and that the diagnostic, analysis and SRIP should be completed in that timeframe so parents receive information and proposed supports promptly.
A member pressed for details about state reporting; Dr. Brewer said reporting will be submitted on or before Oct. 1 and will change once MSDE issues an approved screener list. Mr. Barnes said MSDE plans to release its approved list of universal screeners in February 2026.
The committee moved and voted to recommend permission to adopt COMAR 13A.03.08 to the full State Board; members voted unanimously to advance the regulation for final action.
