COLORADO
A comprehensive overview of Colorado's enacted legislation, regulations, certification requirements, and state-provided resources related to dyslexia education.
BRIEF SUMMARY
Colorado emphasizes early identification, intervention, and structured literacy training for teachers under its dyslexia laws. Schools must screen K-3 students for reading deficiencies and create individualized READ plans for those identified at risk. Professional development ensures teachers are equipped with strategies for effective dyslexia intervention.
COLORADO'S LEGISLATIONS AND REGULATIONS
1. House Bill 08-1223
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Summary: Concerning the Provision of Technical Assistance Pertaining to Colorado Public School Students with Literacy Challenges that Include Dyslexia encourages the Colorado Department of Education (CDE) to provide support and training to educators in literacy. Specifically, the statute promotes technical assistance and training in the assessment and scientifically based interventions for students with literacy challenges, including dyslexia.
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How This Affects Families and Educators: This legislation ensures that teachers receive the necessary training to effectively support students with dyslexia. For families, it means that educators are better equipped to address their children's specific literacy needs, fostering a more supportive learning environment.
2. House Bill 19-1134
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Summary: This bill establishes a statewide plan for identifying and supporting students with dyslexia. It mandates the creation of a working group to recommend dyslexia screening tools and processes and to provide educator training.
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How This Affects Families and Educators: This bill enhances the identification process for dyslexia, allowing teachers to implement effective interventions sooner. Families benefit from a more structured approach to supporting their children’s literacy development.
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More: House Bill 19-1134
3. Senate Bill 19-199
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Summary: This legislation focuses on improving literacy instruction and includes provisions for screening students for dyslexia. It amends the 2012 READ Act to include professional development in teaching evidence-based reading or to provide evidence that educators have met this requirement.
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How This Affects Families and Educators: SB 19-199 equips teachers with the knowledge and tools necessary to identify students at risk for reading difficulties, including dyslexia. Families can expect improved communication from schools regarding their child’s progress and interventions.
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More: Senate Bill 19-199
4. The READ Act (Reading to Ensure Academic Development Act)
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Summary: The READ Act requires schools to assess K-3 students for reading deficiencies and develop individualized READ plans for those identified as having significant reading deficiencies, including dyslexia.
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How This Affects Families and Educators: The READ Act ensures that teachers are proactive in identifying reading issues early on, allowing for timely interventions. Families are involved in the process through the development of individualized plans tailored to their child's needs.
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More: The READ Act
5. Senate Bill 22-004
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Summary: Expands literacy-focused professional development for educators, mandates evidence-based training in reading instruction.
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How This Affects Families and Educators: K-3 educators and reading interventionists in grades 4-12 must complete 45 hours of evidence-based literacy training. Principals and administrators need 20 hours of training or 5 hours if they hold READ Act designations.
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More: Senate Bill 22-004
TEACHER CERTIFICATION AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT REQUIREMENTS
Colorado requires that all teachers who provide instruction in grades K-3 complete training in dyslexia awareness and effective instructional strategies as part of their professional development requirements.
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MORE COLORADO STATE RESOURCES
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