Understanding Act 20

We are excited to share important information about Act 20, a new piece of legislation enacted to enhance early literacy across Wisconsin. 

MMSD’s Early Literacy Plan aligns with Act 20 and is designed to support and enhance reading instruction from the early grades. Our plan provides a framework that complements and strengthens our existing literacy practices to ensure that every child receives the support they need to succeed academically.

Our teachers and staff are dedicated to continuously improving literacy practices. Act 20 provides an opportunity for us to fine-tune our strategies and timelines, helping us to better meet the needs of all students. Act 20 highlights the importance of a collaborative approach, involving families, educators and community members in supporting our students’ literacy development.

What is Act 20?

Act 20 is a state law that requires schools to assess early literacy skills for students in grades 4K-3. This helps ensure that every child receives the support they need to develop strong reading skills.

Key Components of the Assessment

The diagnostic reading assessment must include:

• Rapid Naming: How quickly students can name objects or symbols.
• Phonological Awareness: Recognizing and manipulating sounds in words.
• Word Recognition: Identifying familiar words.
• Spelling: Understanding and writing words correctly.
• Vocabulary: Knowing the meanings of words.
• Listening Comprehension: Understanding spoken language.
• Oral Reading Fluency (when appropriate): Reading smoothly and accurately.
• Reading Comprehension (when appropriate): Understanding and interpreting text.

Can Bilingual Programs Use Other Languages for the Screener Assessment?

Yes! If a child is in a bilingual or dual language program, the early literacy screener can be given in the language of instruction, as long as the assessment meets state requirements and is approved by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI).

What Happens if a Student Scores Low?

If the student doesn't score as well as or better than 25% of all students who took the test nationally on the early literacy screener, a diagnostic reading assessment is required. This helps identify specific reading challenges early, so that personalized support can be provided.

How Will Families Get Reading Information?

Starting in the 2024-2025 school year, schools must provide the following within 15 days after scoring the assessment:

• The child’s score and scores in each literacy skill category.
• The child's percentile rank, if available.
• Definition of “at-risk” and what score indicates this status.
• Plain language explanation of what the assessment measures.

If a child advances to 4th grade without completing their personal reading plan, parents will be notified about the ongoing interventions.

Do Parents Need to Acknowledge Receipt of Notifications?

Yes, parents must sign and return the personal reading plan to the school. This is a notification, not a consent form.

Additional Information for At-Risk Students

If a diagnostic assessment shows a child is at risk, schools will provide information and details about:

• How to make a special education referral.
• Dyslexia and its characteristics.
• Interventions and accommodations for dyslexia.