Kansas senators have approved a heavily amended version of Gov. Sam Brownback's reading initiative, putting the focus on first-graders.
The measure passed 30-10 on Wednesday, sending it back to the House to consider the changes.
Brownback and the House had proposed holding back third-graders who lack proficiency in reading. The Senate's version would require school districts to retain first-graders who don't meet proficiency standards.
The Senate also added language to require multiple tests of student skills and to bring parents in on any decision to hold a student back.
Brownback says the proposal would help improve overall student reading and academic performance.