Montgomery – Gov. Kay Ivey signed House Bill 113, the Class 1 Readiness Act, on Wednesday. The new legislation, sponsored by state Rep. Pevlin Warren, would provide for readiness assessments for first graders who have not attended kindergarten and ensure early educational intervention for children in need.
“The First Grade Readiness Act is a strategic and thoughtful approach to early education in Alabama. This is common sense legislation and no child should start too late.” said Governor Ivey. “By taking proactive steps now to build a strong foundation from the beginning, we won't be forced to be reactive later. Our children are only as good as our best efforts from the beginning. It’s worth it.”
HB113, which passed the Alabama state legislature with overwhelming support, aims to close the educational gap that is evident in the early grades. The Readiness Assessment, developed by the Alabama Department of Education, measures important developmental and physical skills needed by first grade students. Students who have graduated from kindergarten are exempt from this test.
“I commend Governor Ivey for supporting and signing HB 113.” State Representative Pebrin Warren said: “After years of working on this topic, I am determined not to give up on our children. This new law will ensure that our students are ready for first grade. This will improve our education. We are confident that our systems will be strengthened to prevent future retention of young students.”
Readiness assessments will be conducted for the first time in the 2025-2026 school year.
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