Dive Brief:
- New Mexico Governor Susana Martinez has signed a bill allowing formerly failing schools to continue K-3 Plus, a literacy program that targets struggling readers.
- Schools with "D" or "F" ratings and free/reduced lunch rates of 80% have been able to apply for the program, which gives students extra reading time with their teachers — however, the new bill will allow schools using it to continue for one more year after their letter grade has improved to an "A," "B," or "C."
- Legislators have already budgeted for the increase in schools using the program, which currently costs the state $22 million, now that improving schools are eligible.
Dive Insight:
One of the biggest challenges about improvement is knowing when to ween off remediation and extra safety nets. Drop programs too early and you just may find yourself right back where you started. This is a smart plan to ensure improving schools continue with their new, improved track record.