Jan. 10, 2022
BRIDGEVILLE – The House today passed legislation written by Rep. Jason Ortitay (R-Washington/Allegheny) that would create a statewide literacy program focused on the science of reading.
“As the father of a young child, I enjoy reading to my daughter each day,” Ortitay said. “While this activity will hopefully set her up for success, I know that teaching someone to read requires a lot more training and expertise. My legislation would create a program to give pre-K through fourth grade educators the tools they need to teach this important skill. A report released by the Annie E. Casey Foundation showed students who are not proficient in reading by the third grade are four times more likely to not graduate from high school.”
House Bill 2045 would require the Pennsylvania Department of Education to create a program of professional development and applied practice in the science of reading for school personnel. Schools can then elect to participate. The program would include in-class demonstrations, modeling and coaching support to improve reading and literacy outcomes.
The bill now goes to the Senate for its consideration.
The 46th Legislative District includes Collier and South Fayette townships and Bridgeville, Heidelberg, McDonald and Oakdale boroughs in Allegheny County. It also encompasses Canton, Cecil, Mt. Pleasant, Robinson and Smith townships and Burgettstown, McDonald and Midway boroughs in Washington County.
Representative Jason Ortitay
46th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Tracy Polovick
717.260.6358
tpolovick@pahousegop.com
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