With a clear focus on improving student literacy and academic performance post-pandemic, Governor Tina Kotek has signed into law two bills that provide funding for summer learning programs in Oregon. According to an official press release from the Oregon governor's office, both House Bill 2007 and House Bill 5047 received strong bipartisan support and are key to the Governor's K-12 education initiatives.
House Bill 2007 lays down an evidence-based framework for a summer learning grant program, with a focus on closing literacy achievement gaps. Its companion, House Bill 5047, earmarks $35 million for this summer's reading programs, with continued funding for the following two years. Stated by Governor Kotek, "I believe that learning to read is the foundation on which students shape their futures." She emphasized this commitment during a recent signing event, underscoring the importance of these programs in preparing Oregon's youth for the future.
Senator Janeen Sollman, serving as the Subcommittee Co-chair, noted the reflection of Oregon's values in the new legislation, "This bill is a reflection of our values in Oregon, that we support students and are doing all we can to further their learning, especially in the area of evidence-based literacy," as reported by the governor's office. Acknowledging the urgency required in the face of concerning NAEP scores, Representative Ricki Ruiz echoed the imperative for such measures. "With the recent and alarming NAEP scores, it was clear we needed to take urgent action," he told the governor's office.
These bills represent part of a broader strategy by Governor Kotek and the Oregon Legislature to improve educational outcomes. Research indicates summer learning can bridge education gaps while boosting school attendance and student engagement. The grants administered by the Oregon Department of Education will prioritize schools where reading struggles are most prevalent, offering targeted support where it's needed most.
To enhance these literacy efforts, a bill aiming to establish a network of regional literacy coaches is also in the legislative pipeline. This would build upon the Early Literacy Success Initiative, adding another layer to the state's strategy to support effective reading and writing instruction.
