Early detection of dyslexia is paramount for helping students cope with this debilitating condition. Fortunately, there has been a major intervening step in this public health issue. A bill has been signed into law, William W. O’Brien’s bill, has made it possible for students to be screen and have assistance available starting in at the elementary school level.
Lawmakers hope new bill will improve early detection of dyslexia.
This law amends a prior law, making sure that students’ needs are being met at more crucial level of learning. Dyslexia has long caused problems for students in school, and these assessments and assistance programs will be aimed at a more appropriate age, during the formative years. Furthermore, this bill extends training and dyslexia management to school staff, at no cost to them or the facility.
Rep. William W. O’Brien’s bill (2016-H 7052) that adds dyslexia-targeted screening and assistance as a required aspect of the literacy program for students at the elementary grade level was signed into law by Gov. Gina M. Raimondo at a recent ceremonial bill signing.
Laura Lurns · Learning Success expert
Key takeaways
- Early detection of dyslexia in students is vital to allowing them to keep up and flourish in school. The legislation proposed by Rep. O’Brien will facilitate this important need.
- By diagnosing dyslexia early, the students will be able to receive proper care and instruction necessary to become successful students.
- Early screening has been shown in two states to provide higher SAT scores than other neighboring states without such screening, lending credence to the concept that early detection and training does help the children with dyslexia.
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A screener is a starting point, not a diagnosis. If your child might need formal accommodations (an IEP or 504 plan), or you suspect a vision, hearing or medical cause, pursue a professional evaluation too. That is the only route to those supports.
