OKLAHOMA CITY - Rep. Rob Hall, R-Tulsa, announced he will host an interim study to explore implementing a policy that retains students in literacy-focused grade levels until they have mastered essential reading skills.

The study will examine current retention and intervention practices across Oklahoma and consider ways to strengthen support for students in kindergarten through third grade. It will also look at successful literacy models in other states and how early interventions such as tutoring, reading specialists and parental engagement can help students meet literacy benchmarks before moving to higher grade levels.

"The ability to read well is the foundation on which all future educational achievement is built," Hall said. "Research has consistently shown that if we don't ensure our youngest students are reading at an age-appropriate level by the time they leave third grade, we're setting them up for challenges throughout their entire education."

"Education begins with strong literacy skills, and I’m glad we’re taking a closer look at how to strengthen that foundation," said House Speaker Kyle Hilbert, R-Bristow. "I thank Rep. Hall for setting up this important study. I look forward to hearing the discussion and learning from the findings." 

Lindel Fields, newly appointed state superintendent of public instruction, will be in attendance to contribute to the discussion.

The House Common Education Committee will hear the interim study on Oct. 22 at 12 p.m. in Room 206 at the Oklahoma State Capitol.