MontanaHB 33869th Legislature, Regular Session (2025)HouseWALLET

Revise laws regarding targeted early numeracy intervention

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.

More early help: class, home, summer

Districts may run classroom programs for eligible 4‑year‑olds not yet in kindergarten; full‑time options must allow half‑time enrollment. Districts may offer a home‑based program, run by a nonprofit, for children 4 or older through 2nd grade. The state pays up to $1,000 per child each year for this home program from set funds; if money runs out, spots are first‑come, first‑served. Districts may also run a summer jumpstart for ages 5 through 3rd grade: at least 4 weeks and 120 hours, aligned to state rules to boost reading or math.

Targeted programs raise school funding counts

Children in classroom‑based targeted interventions count in a district’s enrollment used for state funding. Jumpstart participants count as quarter‑time. After jumpstart, districts add 0.25 to the student’s regular count in both the October and February counts following participation, up to 1.25 total. This can increase district funding tied to enrollment.

Early reading and math help, by request

Children can qualify for early help in reading or math, not just reading. The state board sets research‑based, age‑appropriate tests that guide instruction. A child is tested only when a parent or guardian asks. Districts may test children age 4 or older by September 10 who have not yet entered 3rd grade, if parents request it. Districts can begin math‑based checks as soon as the board approves them. The law takes effect on passage and approval.

Earlier school entry and family guides

Trustees may admit a child under age 5 in exceptional cases, such as preschool, early kindergarten if ready, or early intervention or jumpstart, without changing funding counts by itself. Each district board must give families a yearly guide to district options, including special education, early interventions, part‑time enrollment, kindergarten rules, extracurriculars, remote learning, out‑of‑district attendance, and advanced and career programs.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Melissa Romano
Democrat • House

Cosponsors

Jacinda Morigeau
Democrat • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 264 • No: 29

Senate vote • 4/11/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 32 • No: 16

Senate vote • 4/10/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 34 • No: 13

House vote • 2/18/2025

Do Pass

Yes: 99 • No: 0

House vote • 2/14/2025