Legislation that will profoundly reshape early childhood education in the state was signed into law Wednesday.

The First Grade Readiness bill establishes a readiness assessment for first-graders who did not attend kindergarten and, if necessary, provides them with educational intervention.

“The First Grade Readiness Bill is a strategic and thoughtful approach to early education in Alabama. This is common sense legislation – no child should start behind,” said Gov. Kay Ivey. “By taking proactive steps now to lay a strong foundation from the very beginning, we will not be forced to make reactive moves later.

“Our children deserve no less than our best efforts right from the start.”

✍️: I have signed HB113, the First Grade Readiness Bill, into law.

This is common sense legislation — no child should start behind. Our children deserve no less than our best efforts right from the start. #alpoliticshttps://t.co/ELMj1SH9i7

— Governor Kay Ivey (@GovernorKayIvey) May 15, 2024

State Rep. Pebblin Warren sponsored the legislation.

“I applaud Governor Ivey for supporting and signing HB 113,” said Warren (D-Tuskegee). “After years of work on this subject, I was determined not to give up on our kids! This new law will ensure students are truly prepared to enter the first grade.

“I’m confident this will strengthen our education system and prevent future retention among our younger students.”

The readiness assessment was created by the Alabama State Department of Education .

Students who have completed kindergarten will be exempt from testing. The assessment start in the 2025-2026 school year.

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten