The bill S.F. No. 2540, introduced in the Minnesota Senate, proposes creating the Minnesota Young Readers Club Program to support literacy development among students. The key aspects of the bill include:

1. Purpose & Findings: Research supports that diverse and engaging home libraries improve reading proficiency and engagement. This program aligns with Minnesota’s Read Well by Third Grade initiative.

2. Eligibility: The program targets prekindergarten through grade 5 students who are reading below grade level. Eligibility is determined by:

   • Universal screening showing a student is not meeting literacy benchmarks (pre-K to grade 3).
   • A student scoring below proficiency on state reading assessments (grades 4-5).
   • A recommendation from a teacher, reading specialist, or intervention team.

3. Implementation:

   • Schools are encouraged to refer and enroll students.
   • Information about the program must be provided to parents.
   • Teachers, counselors, and reading specialists integrate it with existing literacy interventions.

4. Book Selection & Distribution:

   • The Department of Education will partner with an experienced book provider.
   • Books will be culturally and linguistically relevant, age-appropriate, and aligned with reading levels.
   • Books will be delivered monthly to students' homes or schools.
   • Family support materials will be included, offering reading guidance and translation when needed.

5. Family Engagement:

   • The program emphasizes culturally responsive family literacy support.
   • Resources will encourage parents to make reading a daily routine.

6. Evaluation & Reporting:

   • The Department of Education will collect data on participation, family engagement, and reading improvements.
   • An annual report will be submitted to legislative committees with recommendations for improvements.

7. Community & Private Partnerships:

   • The department may collaborate with businesses, libraries, and literacy organizations to enhance the program.
   • Community literacy events may be hosted.

8. Funding:

   • The bill appropriates funds from the general fund to implement the program.
   • Funds will be used for department activities and contracted literacy material providers.
   • Any unused funds in the first year will carry over to the second year.

This legislation is designed to enhance early literacy by ensuring regular access to books and home-based reading support for struggling young readers across Minnesota.