Kansas Passes Legislation Transforming How Educators Are Trained to Teach Reading 

“This legislation represents a significant commitment to Kansas’ young readers by ensuring their classroom teachers are trained in the science of reading. Under this new law, Kansas will join a growing movement to eliminate the disproven three-cueing systems method from teacher preparation programs and provide educators with the support and resources they need to use evidence-based curriculum and instructional practices.  

“We are grateful to Speaker Daniel Hawkins, Senate President Ty Masterson, Rep. Adam Thomas and Sen. Molly Baumgardner for their vision and leadership in spearheading this important work. Equipping educators with knowledge and tools grounded in science is the first, essential step for ensuring every child becomes a proficient reader and can achieve a lifetime of success.”  

About the Legislation 

Kansas’ SB 438 strengthens early literacy programs across the state. Key provisions include: 

• Literacy training for teachers based on the science of reading. 
• Postsecondary educational institutions to use science of reading materials, with a ban on three-cueing in teacher preparation programs. 

• A comprehensive reading and literacy assessment system to be established by the Kansas Board of Regents, including assistance with implementation. 
• Science of reading micro-credentials and professional development for teachers. 
• An early literacy advisory committee to monitor and make recommendations on literacy training for teachers.        
• A plan by the literacy advisory committee to establish six regional centers of excellence in reading. 
• A director of literacy education to be appointed by the Kansas Board of Regents. 

The legislation now heads to Gov. Laura Kelly’s desk for signature.