Maddy summaryThis bill updates Massachusetts teacher preparation and certification requirements to improve early literacy instruction and address educational disparities. It mandates that teacher training programs be evaluated based on how well their graduates support diverse students, specifically focusing on evidence-based reading skills like phonics and vocabulary. Additionally, the law requires all educators and administrators to complete training in culturally responsive and anti-racist teaching strategies. The legislation also establishes new rules for reading screenings in grades K-3, requiring schools to use approved evidence-based tools and share results with parents within 30 days if a student falls behind. Finally, the bill mandates that elementary literacy curricula must include instruction in the five core areas of reading research.
Rep. Alice Peisch
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis bill directs the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to create a five-year pilot program that offers an alternative path to teacher certification. Instead of requiring all candidates to pass standard state exams, the program would allow individuals to earn preliminary certification based on their teaching experience and student growth scores over four years. The alternative process could also waive one of the two required tests for candidates who have already been certified in another state, shown significant impact on student growth while working outside Massachusetts, or completed a satisfactory portfolio of work. This initiative directly affects aspiring educators by providing a more flexible route to licensure that relies on demonstrated proficiency rather than solely on standardized testing.
By Representative Peisch of Wellesley, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2629) of Alice Hanlon Peisch relative to the State Retiree Benefits Trust Fund Board of Directors. Public Service.
By Representatives O'Day of West Boylston and Philips of Sharon, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2246) of James J. O'Day, Edward R. Philips and others for legislation to authorize attending physicians to prescribe medical aid in dying medication that will end the life of patients in a peaceful manner. Public Health.
By Representative Hogan of Stow and Senator Cyr, a joint petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2197) of Kate Hogan, Julian Cyr and others for legislation to protect public health from PFAS. Public Health.
Substituted by the House, on motion of Mr. Walsh of Peabody, for a bill with the same title (House, No. 2810) [Local Approval Received]. January 18, 2024.
By Representative Peisch of Wellesley, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2631) of Alice Hanlon Peisch relative to the membership of the PRIM Board. Public Service.
By Representative Garlick of Needham, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2178) of Denise C. Garlick and others for legislation to strengthen the public health infrastructure to address Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia. Public Health.
By Representatives Linsky of Natick and Peisch of Wellesley, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 3079) of David Paul Linsky and Alice Hanlon Peisch relative to open meeting law complaints. State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.