A.37/S.6844 establishes the New York individuals with dyslexia education act.  The legislation requires a plan to identify and support students with dyslexia, requires annual screening in grades K-5, directs school districts to intervene and support students identified as having dyslexia, and requires NYSED to develop materials to support and educate parents and educators on dyslexia. 

NYS PTA strongly supports this legislation. 

Research has shown that 1 in 5 children have dyslexia or a similar phonemic awareness issue, and dyslexia accounts for nearly 80% of learning disability classifications. 

We know that early intervention is critical to support students, and drastically improves educational outcomes for children.  ALL schools must have uniform, annual screening for ALL students in early grades, to identify students for intervention and support. 

NYS PTA also supports: 

• A.78/S.7454, which relates to early literacy education
• A.419/S.756, which requires insurance to cover neuropsychological exams for dyslexia
• A.1186/S.7472, which requires school districts to conduct mandatory early screening for dyslexia
• A.6208/S.5427, which relates to screening and services for children with dyslexia 

 

We look to the legislature for swift passage of this critical legislation in January, and thank them for their continued support for all children.