How I Voted: An Act Relative to Literacy, Financial Literacy, and the Seal of Biliteracy

Improving Early Literacy, Financial Education, and Biliteracy Opportunities for Massachusetts Students

Bill: H.4896, An Act Relative to Literacy, Financial Literacy, and the Seal of Biliteracy

Date of Vote: October 29, 2025

What Problem Was This Bill Trying to Solve?

Massachusetts students continue to face challenges recovering from learning disruptions and improving academic outcomes, particularly in early literacy. According to data from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), many students in grades 3-8 and grade 10 are not meeting expectations in English Language Arts, and achievement gaps among student groups have widened compared with pre-pandemic levels.

Research shows that early literacy skills are foundational to long-term academic success.

However, not all school districts have adopted evidence-based literacy instruction practices, creating inconsistent access to effective reading instruction across the Commonwealth.

Students also need stronger preparation for life after graduation, including practical knowledge of personal finance. Additionally, existing requirements for the Seal of Biliteracy needed updates to provide more flexibility for students demonstrating proficiency in multiple languages.

This legislation strengthens literacy instruction, expands access to financial education, and modernizes pathways for students to earn recognition for bilingual achievement.

What Does the Bill Do?

• Requires school districts to use evidence-based literacy instruction curricula for kindergarten through third grade.

• Requires DESE to identify and approve a list of high-quality K-3 literacy curricula based on scientific research and demonstrated effectiveness.

• Allows districts to use alternative literacy curricula if DESE verifies that the program meets evidence-based standards.

• Requires DESE to provide districts with resources and professional development tools, including:

  • Online instructional materials.

  • Training modules for educators.

  • Support aligned with evidence-based literacy practices.

• Requires educator preparation programs to ensure future teachers receive training in evidence-based literacy instruction.

• Requires schools to report on early literacy instruction beginning in the 2026 school year and requires DESE to provide annual literacy reports.

• Establishes a study and reporting process regarding the literacy workforce, including school libraries and literacy support personnel.

• Allows literacy grants to support:

  • Student literacy screenings.

  • Professional development.

  • Library investments.

• Establishes a Financial Literacy Trust Fund to support personal financial education for middle and high school students.

• Requires school districts to provide personal financial literacy instruction beginning in the 2026 school year, including topics such as:

  • Income, taxes, budgeting, and spending.

  • Saving, banking, and financial planning.

  • Credit, investing, and risk management.o Identity theft prevention and online scams.

  • Digital financial tools and emerging technologies.

  • Consumer rights and major financial decisions.

• Requires DESE to support schools with access to financial literacy curriculum materials and professional development opportunities.

• Requires DESE to report annually on financial literacy instruction across Massachusetts schools.

• Updates requirements for the State Seal of Biliteracy by allowing the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) to establish alternative assessments or equivalent pathways in place of the current MCAS requirement.

  
  

How I Voted

I voted YES.

Why I Voted This Way

A strong education system must prepare students with the foundational skills they need to succeed in school, in the workforce, and in everyday life. Literacy is one of the most important building blocks of a student’s education, and ensuring that every child has access to effective reading instruction is essential to closing achievement gaps and expanding opportunity.

This legislation also recognizes that students need practical skills beyond traditional academics. Financial literacy gives young people the knowledge to make informed decisions about saving, spending, credit, and planning for their future.

Additionally, modernizing the Seal of Biliteracy requirements ensures that students who demonstrate proficiency in multiple languages have equitable opportunities to receive recognition for their accomplishments.

I supported this legislation because it strengthens early education, expands access to important life skills, supports educators, and helps ensure Massachusetts students are prepared for future academic, professional, and personal success.