Understanding Wisconsin’s Act 20: Enhancing Literacy for Students

What is Act 20? 

Wisconsin’s Act 20 was designed to enhance reading proficiency among students in grades 4K-3. The goal is to ensure that all children are reading at or above grade level by the end of third grade. Recognizing the critical importance of early literacy, this act implements specific measures to support our students in achieving this goal.

Key Requirements of Act 20

1.  Early Literacy Screening: Schools are required to conduct screenings 3x yearly in AIMSweb+ for foundational literacy skills in 4K-3rd grade. This helps to identify students who may need additional support.
2.  Personalized Reading Plans: For students who demonstrate reading difficulties and fall below the 25th percentile, schools are required to develop a Personalized Reading Plan (PRP). This plan will include specific goals, strategies, and interventions tailored to meet each child's unique needs. It is a collaborative effort involving teachers, parents, and, of course, the students themselves.
3.  Regular Progress Monitoring: The act mandates regular progress monitoring to track the effectiveness of interventions and adjust them as necessary. This ensures that each student receives the support they need to improve their reading skills.
4.  Family Involvement: Act 20 emphasizes the importance of family engagement in a child’s literacy development. Schools will provide resources and strategies for parents to support reading at home.
5.  Professional Development for Educators: To implement these requirements effectively, educators will receive training on best practices in literacy instruction and intervention strategies. This ensures that teachers are equipped with the latest tools and knowledge to support our students. 

What This Means for Parents and Guardians:

• Encourage Reading at Home: Make reading a daily habit. Watch also for materials and resources sent home to continue the learning from the school day.
• Stay Informed: Look for updates from your child’s teacher regarding their reading progress and any Personalized Reading Plans.
• Participate in School Activities: Join literacy events and workshops offered by the school to learn more about how to support your child’s reading development. 

If you have any questions about Act 20 or how it impacts your child’s education, please feel free to reach out. Thank you for your continued partnership!  

Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, December 2024