Pupil literacy: credential program standards and professional development: instructional materials.

Assembly Members Rivas, Muratsuchi, and Blanca Rubio propose comprehensive updates to California's literacy education standards through new requirements for teacher credentials and instructional materials. The legislation establishes specific criteria for reading specialist and administrative credentials while mandating aligned English language arts materials for kindergarten through eighth grade.

The Commission on Teacher Credentialing must revise its standards by January 2028 to ensure reading specialist candidates receive preparation in evidence-based literacy instruction methods. These include explicit teaching of phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, and comprehension, with particular attention to supporting English learners and students with reading difficulties. Similarly, by September 2028, administrative credential programs must prepare school leaders to support teachers in delivering effective literacy instruction aligned with state frameworks and dyslexia guidelines.

The State Board of Education must adopt new K-8 English language arts and English language development materials by January 2027 that incorporate systematic reading instruction approaches and meet specified criteria. Local educational agencies must either use state-adopted materials or certify that their chosen materials align with the established standards. The legislation includes provisions for state reimbursement of any mandated local costs, as determined by the Commission on State Mandates.