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HB 972

Education; require written notice to parents and guardians of students in grades four through eight at least twice each school year stating whether such student has attained grade level reading proficiency

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bryce Berry and 5 co-sponsors

Georgia schools must notify parents twice yearly in writing whether students in grades 4-8 meet grade-level reading proficiency standards.

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Bill Summary · HB 972

Legislative bill overview

HB 972 requires Georgia schools to send written notices to parents and guardians of students in grades 4-8 at least twice per school year informing them whether their child has achieved grade-level reading proficiency. The bill mandates transparent communication about student literacy progress during critical developmental years.

Why is this important

Reading proficiency by grade 3-4 is a well-documented predictor of long-term academic success and high school graduation rates. Early parental notification enables families to advocate for interventions, tutoring, or support services before achievement gaps widen significantly. This transparency can also hold schools accountable for literacy outcomes.

Potential points of contention

  • Standardized testing concerns: The bill doesn't specify which assessment determines "proficiency," raising questions about whether districts use validated benchmarks or inconsistent measures across schools
  • Implementation costs and burden: Schools must develop notification systems and potentially hire staff to manage communications twice annually, with funding implications unclear
  • Stigma and student impact: Twice-yearly written notice of reading struggles may create psychological barriers or shame for struggling readers, particularly if notices reach students or are discussed negatively at home
  • Parental capacity to respond: Notification alone doesn't guarantee parents have resources (tutoring costs, time availability, literacy knowledge) to address identified deficiencies

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

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