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HB 2143

Require elementary school teachers to be certified in the science of reading

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Ellington and 2 co-sponsors

House Bill 2143 mandates K-5 teachers in West Virginia to obtain a science of reading endorsement by 2026, enhancing literacy instruction and improving student outcomes.

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#education(k12)
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Bill Summary · HB 2143

Summary of House Bill 2143

Bill Number: HB 2143
Title: Require Elementary School Teachers to be Certified in the Science of Reading
Status: To Education
Introduced: February 12, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Education (K12)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2143 aims to enhance literacy instruction in West Virginia's elementary schools by requiring all public school teachers and public charter school teachers who provide literacy instruction for Kindergarten through Grade 5 to obtain an endorsement in the science of reading. This endorsement is intended to ensure that educators are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach reading based on scientifically-backed methods.

Key Provisions

  1. Endorsement Requirement:

    • Beginning no later than the 2026-2027 school year, all K-5 teachers must receive training in the science of reading.
    • The training will include high-quality professional learning that incorporates ongoing, intensive training with classroom application activities and live sessions.

  2. Enrollment Timeline:

    • Currently employed teachers must enroll in the approved professional learning by the 2027-2028 school year.
    • Newly employed teachers must enroll in their first year of employment.

  3. Application for Endorsement:

    • Educators who complete the training can apply for the Science of Reading endorsement at no cost.

  4. Accommodations:

    • The State Board may provide accommodations for counties whose educators are in the process of obtaining the endorsement.

  5. Curriculum Standards:

    • The West Virginia Department of Education will establish a list of approved core curriculum and instructional materials aligned with the science of reading.
    • Schools will not be allowed to use any curriculum that employs the "three-cueing approach" to teach reading, with specific exceptions for individual students under certain conditions.

  6. Waivers:

    • Schools may apply for waivers to use the three-cueing approach on a case-by-case basis, but students with reading improvement plans or individualized education programs (IEPs) that specify this approach will not require a waiver.

  7. Professional Development Vendors:

    • The Department of Education will identify vendors to provide professional development in the science of reading for educators, including pre-service teachers.

Impact

This bill is expected to significantly impact:
- Teachers: All K-5 literacy instructors will need to undergo additional training and certification, enhancing their teaching effectiveness.
- Students: The focus on the science of reading aims to improve literacy outcomes for students, particularly those who struggle with reading.
- School Districts: Districts will need to adapt their curricula and training programs to comply with the new requirements.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 12, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Committee on Education.
  • March 17, 2025: Passed in the House and communicated to the Senate.
  • March 18, 2025: Introduced in the Senate and referred to the Education Committee.

This bill represents a proactive step towards improving literacy education in West Virginia, ensuring that teachers are well-prepared to support their students' reading development.

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

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