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HB 1597

An Act amending the act of March 10, 1949 (P.L.30, No.14), known as the Public School Code of 1949, in terms and courses of study, providing for after-school reading program.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bud Cook and 2 co-sponsors

Pennsylvania bill requiring or authorizing after-school reading programs in public schools to improve student literacy outcomes and provide supplemental instruction.

Referred to Education
0
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Bill Summary · HB 1597

Legislative bill overview

HB 1597 amends Pennsylvania's Public School Code of 1949 to establish provisions for after-school reading programs. The bill would require or authorize school districts to offer structured reading instruction outside regular classroom hours, though specific implementation details are not provided in the title.

Why is this important

Reading proficiency is foundational to student success across all subjects and grade levels. After-school programs can provide targeted intervention for struggling readers and enrichment for advanced students, potentially addressing gaps that emerge during the standard school day while accommodating diverse learning paces.

Potential points of contention

  • Funding mechanisms – The bill does not specify whether programs would be funded through existing school budgets, state grants, or local resources, raising concerns about unfunded mandates on districts with limited budgets
  • Implementation flexibility – Schools may disagree on whether programs should be mandatory or voluntary, and what grade levels or student populations should be targeted
  • Teacher compensation and staffing – Unclear whether existing teachers would lead programs with additional pay, or whether districts must hire additional staff, affecting labor costs and union negotiations

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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