SB 23-181

Senate Bill 23-181, also known as the Dyslexia Screening in Schools bill, requires Colorado schools to screen students for dyslexia and other foundational literacy skill deficits. It mandates that these schools provide evidence-based support and interventions for at-risk students and share information about their screening methods with parents and the public. Additionally, it sets up an independent ombudsman office to oversee these efforts. Since the bill has been signed into law, Colorado’s educational institutions must now implement these measures to help identify and assist students who struggle with reading and related skills.

Official Summary

The bill implements recommendations from the dyslexia working group. The bill: Directs school districts, boards of cooperative services, charter schools, and institute charter schools (local education providers) to screen for students at risk of foundational literacy skill deficits; Directs local education providers to provide evidence-based supplemental instruction and intervention for children at risk of foundational literacy skill deficits; Requires local education providers to provide the public and parents information regarding which screening and interventions the local education provider uses for foundational literacy skill deficits; Requires the department of education to provide professional development for local education providers and the public in evidence-based best practices, including screening, supplemental instruction, and intervention; and Establishes an independent ombudsman office.(Note: This summary applies to this bill as introduced.)