Senate President Spilka Hails Signing of Legislation to Improve Early Literacy Instruction in Massachusetts
(BOSTON — 6/26/2026) Today, Senate President Karen E. Spilka hailed the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s signing of An Act Relative to Teacher Preparation and Student Literacy, legislation designed to raise literacy rates among Massachusetts students by giving schools and educators additional resources to support early reading achievement
“When our students succeed, the future of our Commonwealth is so much brighter. This early literacy legislation will help ensure that students receive the evidenced-based instruction they need to become the strongest readers they can be, plus provide our educators with essential tools to support their students," said Senate President Spilka.
"As a parent who had to help their child navigate reading struggles, I understand how important this legislation is for youth, families, and teachers across the Commonwealth.
I'm grateful to the Governor for her signature, to Senator DiDomenico for his leadership on this issue, and to all my colleagues across the Senate and House for advancing this crucial legislation.”
The legislation includes several measures to strengthen literacy instruction, support educators and help students develop the reading skills they need to succeed.
It requires school districts to select K-3 reading curricula backed by scientific research proven to improve student competency in reading, vocabulary, oral language, and comprehension, while also requiring the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to develop a free, high-quality K-3 literacy curriculum available to school districts across Massachusetts.
The legislation additionally codifies dyslexia and literacy screening requirements, requiring schools to develop screening protocols for potential neurological learning disabilities and to annually report their screening practices, alongside a requirement that school districts assess students' reading ability and review their achievement progress at least twice per school year from K-3.
Finally, the legislation expands the Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Program to support paid teaching apprenticeships in high-needs districts, and supports DESE's expedited review of teacher education programs to ensure they use evidence-based literacy training.
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