On January 29, the Massachusetts Senate took up legislation to expand early literacy requirements across the Commonwealth
During the debate, I spoke on the Senate floor in support of an amendment I filed to make sure these new literacy requirements actually work for rural and minimum-aid school districts, including the districts I represent in western and north central Massachusetts. Too often, well-intentioned statewide policies fail to account for the real, on-the-ground challenges faced by smaller, under-resourced communities.
My remarks sparked a bipartisan conversation about a reality many of us know all too well: without meaningful education funding reform, new mandates can unintentionally widen inequities instead of closing them. Watch here.
After significant discussion and debate, my amendment was adopted. The amendment strengthens the legislation by ensuring that:
- Schools can use Early Literacy Fund dollars to cover the cost of required literacy screenings
- Geographic equity and funding need are prioritized when literacy grants are awarded
- A public hearing is held in western Massachusetts before grant regulations are finalized
- Rural districts receive hands-on technical assistance so they can successfully apply for and access these grants
This isn’t the first time — and it certainly won’t be the last — that I will push for regional equity as we debate policies that affect every corner of the Commonwealth. Rural communities deserve a seat at the table and policies that reflect their realities.
I’m glad to see this important debate covered by Western Mass News. Check out the recent coverage from the Boston Globe as well. Boston is beginning to hear us.
