BRIEF SUMMARY

New Mexico requires schools to screen students for dyslexia, provide evidence-based interventions, and ensure teachers complete structured literacy training. Additionally, professional development opportunities are offered to enhance teacher effectiveness in dyslexia support.

NEW MEXICO LEGISLATIONS AND REGULATIONS

1.  SB398 (2019)

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• Summary: This bill requires dyslexia screening for all first-grade students and mandates school districts to develop and implement a literacy professional development plan for teachers. Additionally, school districts must provide evidence-based interventions with progress monitoring to address students' needs.
   

• How This Affects Families and Educators: Ensures early identification of dyslexia and improves teacher preparedness to support students with dyslexia.
   

• More: 
  - Senate Bill 398
  - House Bill 230 (2010) which expanded on the original SB398

2.  New Mexico Statutes Section 22-13-32 
 

• Summary: This statute requires all first-grade students to be screened for dyslexia and provides evidence-based interventions for those showing signs of reading difficulties. Schools must also develop literacy training plans for teachers. 
   

• How This Affects Families and Educators: Provides a comprehensive framework for supporting students with dyslexia, including screening, intervention, and professional development for educators.
   

• More: New Mexico Statutes Section 22-13-32

TEACHER CERTIFICATION AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT REQUIREMENTS

• School districts must develop and implement a literacy professional development plan that includes:
  - Structured literacy training for elementary school teachers
  - Evidence-based reading intervention training for reading interventionists and special education teachers working with students demonstrating characteristics of dyslexia
   

• The Department of Education must provide lists of recommended teacher professional development materials and opportunities regarding evidence-based reading instruction for students at risk for reading failure and displaying characteristics of dyslexia.
   

More: New Mexico Statutes Section 22-13-32