Early childhood literacy pilot programs establishment

SF 2027 establishes early childhood literacy pilot programs to improve reading readiness in young children. It requires the commissioner of education to convene an expert panel to review literacy research and recommend evidence-based practices for family engagement, curricula, and instruction. The commissioner must then implement these pilot programs in diverse settings like public pre-K, Head Start, and childcare centers, using funds available. An independent evaluation will measure the pilots' effectiveness in improving early literacy outcomes, with annual public reviews of results. The bill also updates kindergarten entry assessment requirements to better identify literacy readiness.