AB 1454: What is it and why should I care?

AB 1454 is a bill moving through the California legislature aimed at improving early literacy instruction across the state. It focuses on training teachers, updating reading materials, and preparing school leaders to support evidence-based reading instruction.

If AB 1454 passes and is fully funded, it could help close achievement gaps and give every California child a stronger start in school.

If enacted, AB 1454 will:

• Update Instructional Materials: Require the State Board of Education (SBE) to adopt a new list of evidence-based English language arts and English language development instructional materials for Local Education Agencies to either choose from or self-certify that their materials meet the SBE’s criteria.

• Prepare School Leaders and Reading Specialists: Update administrator and reading specialist credential programs to include training on effective literacy instruction, ensuring leaders and specialists can effectively support teaching staff

What the Bill Does

• Supports Teacher Training:
  Offers state-funded professional development for TK–5 teachers in how to teach reading using proven, research-based methods.

• Updates Curriculum:
  Requires new, high-quality ELA/ELD instructional materials aligned with current literacy research.

• Strengthens School Leadership:
  Ensures principals and administrators are trained to support effective literacy practices at their schools.

Why Parents and Teachers Should Care

• More effective reading instruction for all kids, especially those who struggle.

• Equity across districts—so training and resources aren’t limited to better-funded schools.

• Stronger long-term outcomes—early literacy sets the stage for success in all subjects.

Why AB 1454 Matters

In California, only about 43% of third graders met or exceeded state ELA standards in 2023–24—and proficiency rates remain especially low among English learners and students from economically marginalized backgrounds. aedn.assembly.ca.gov

AB 1454 builds directly on recent investments—including screening efforts, legislative literacy initiatives, and budget allocations exceeding $200 million—by ensuring training, materials, and leadership credentials are aligned with empirical research on how children learn to read. EdVoiceDecoding Dyslexia CAaedn.assembly.ca.gov