Illinois – 2013-2014 – HB3700 – Dyslexia Screening and Intervention

Image2Requires the State Board of Education to distribute to each school board information on screening instruments available to identify students who exhibit potential indicators of dyslexia and other reading disabilities. Requires a school board to select and implement age-appropriate screening instruments for the early diagnosis of dyslexia and other reading disabilities and to ensure that each kindergarten student enrolled in the school district is screened for dyslexia and other reading disabilities.

develop and distribute to each school board guidance on appropriate intervention strategies for students diagnosed with dyslexia or other reading disabilities.

Provides that, in the event that a student is determined to exhibit potential indicators of dyslexia or another reading disability, the school board shall ensure that the student receives a comprehensive assessment for the learning disorder and, in the event that a diagnosis is confirmed, the school board shall provide appropriate intervention strategies to the student.

Sets forth requirements concerning professional development related to reading disabilities, the incorporation of the International Dyslexia Association’s definition of dyslexia into administrative rules, and an additional written test for certain educator licensure candidates. Effective immediately.

Update: House Amendment 001 replaces bill outlined above with provisions requiring adoption of an international definition of dyslexia, and establishing an advisory group to develop training modules for teachers and other educators regarding multi-sensory, systematic and sequential instruction in reading.