HR 3776 112th Congress House

SKILLS Act

Official title: To amend the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 regarding school libraries, and for other purposes.

Introduced: January 17, 2012 See on congress.gov

Education Broadcasting, cable, digital technologiesEducation of the disadvantagedEducation programs fundingEducational technology and distance education

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Elementary and secondary educationLibraries and archivesTeaching, teachers, curricula

Everywhere this bill has been 3 steps

Introduced

In committee

Reported out

Passed House

Passed Senate

To President

Became law

Mar 29, 2012

Referred to the Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education.

Jan 17, 2012

Referred to the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.

Jan 17, 2012

Introduced in House

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Latest action March 29, 2012

Referred to the Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education.

Plain-English summary Congressional Research Service

Strengthening Kids' Interest in Learning and Libraries Act or SKILLS Act - Amends part A of title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to require the inclusion of effective school library programs in school improvement programs.

Defines an "effective school library program" as one that: (1) is staffed by a state sanctioned school librarian; (2) has up-to-date materials and technology, including broadband; (3) includes regular collaboration between teachers and school librarians concerning school reform efforts; and (4) supports the development of digital literacy skills.

Replaces the existing program under subpart 4 (Improving Literacy Through School Libraries) of part B of title I of the ESEA with a new program (Improving Literacy and College and Career Readiness Through Effective School Library Programs) awarding competitive three-year grants to local educational agencies (LEAs) to develop and enhance effective school library programs. Makes LEAs eligible for such grants only if at least 20% of their students are impoverished.

Amends part A (Teacher and Principal Training and Recruiting Fund) of title II of the ESEA to rename part A the Teacher, School Librarian, and Principal Training and Recruiting Fund. Requires states and LEAs to use funds under the program to train school librarians, and recruit and retain highly effective school librarians.

Bill text 1 version