The Oregon Senate Committee on Education convened on April 23, 2025, to discuss House Bill 3,040, a significant piece of legislation aimed at enhancing early literacy programs across the state. The bill modifies the use of early literacy grants and introduces new reporting requirements, allowing the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) to mandate school districts to adopt specific instructional materials or participate in training if they fail to meet early literacy goals.

Jonah Timbs from ODE presented the bill, highlighting its foundation on the previously passed House Bill 3,198, which allocated over $90 million for early literacy initiatives from birth to third grade. This funding supports evidence-based curriculum, professional development for educators, and targeted assistance for struggling readers. Timbs emphasized that HB 3,040 builds on these efforts by expanding professional development eligibility to instructional assistants and allowing continued use of state funds for curriculum in grades four and five, ensuring a seamless transition for students.

A key feature of HB 3,040 is the establishment of a regional literacy coaching program. This initiative aims to provide expert coaching in schools that need it most, drawing on successful models from other states like Colorado and Louisiana. The coaching program is designed to enhance instructional quality and improve student outcomes by embedding support within schools.

Committee members expressed strong support for the bill, with Senator Weber reflecting on the frustrations of past reading programs and emphasizing the importance of a consistent, evidence-based approach. Other senators raised questions about lessons learned from successful literacy programs in other states and the need for current educators to receive proper training in the science of reading.

The committee's discussions underscored the importance of a comprehensive approach to literacy, recognizing that early reading skills are crucial for future success. The ODE plans to monitor the implementation of HB 3,040 closely, ensuring that the initiative evolves based on feedback and results.

As the bill moves forward, it represents a strategic enhancement to Oregon's early literacy framework, aiming to provide all students with the foundational skills necessary for academic achievement.