Senate Bill 2487, authored by Senator Dennis DeBar, strengthens student outcomes by expanding proven literacy policies into middle school grades. The bill is built on the foundation of the Literacy-Based Promotion Act, which focused on Kindergarten through Grade 3 and has widely been credited with jumpstarting the “Mississippi Miracle.”
By requiring individualized reading plans, timely parent notification, and evidence-based instructional supports, the bill ensures students who fall behind in reading receive focused help before learning gaps widen. Clear expectations for intervention and educator support help schools respond more effectively during the critical middle-grade years.
SB 2487 also promotes greater accountability and consistency by establishing statewide standards for literacy instruction and dyslexia identification, helping ensure students receive appropriate support regardless of where they attend school.
Empower Mississippi supports this legislation.
SB 2487 passed the Senate Education Committee and is awaiting action by the full Senate.
