(a) Improve the readiness of children preparing to enter into kindergarten; and

(b) Improve the reading proficiency of students by the time the students complete the third grade.

(2) To accomplish the purposes of the Oregon Early Reading Program, the State Board of Education shall identify programs for the distribution of moneys by the Department of Education for strategic investments that advance at least one of the following missions:

(a) Encouraging early reading and involving parents, child care providers and the community in ensuring that children have an early start at reading.

(b) Expanding the amount of time spent reading, adult support, the availability of reading materials, cultural relevance and the level of enjoyment that literacy brings.

(c) Providing differentiated instruction to assist students with reading in early grades.

(3) In addition to moneys distributed as provided by subsection (2) of this section, the Department of Education may distribute strategic investment moneys for any of the following purposes:

(a) Creating materials and curriculum that promote early literacy;

(b) Extending or expanding reading opportunities in public schools that meet criteria established by the board by providing adult support or programs offered during nonschool hours; or

(c) Increasing the number of school districts that participate in a network in this state that is designed to support school districts in implementing high-quality reading instruction and protocols that identify, support and serve students who are at risk for not reading at grade level early and effectively. [2013 c.660 §2; 2013 c.660 §6; 2015 c.774 §§18,68,68a]

Note: See note under 327.800.