WISCONSIN
A comprehensive overview of Wisconsin's enacted legislation, regulations, certification requirements, and state-provided resources related to dyslexia education.
BRIEF SUMMARY
Wisconsin mandates early dyslexia screening, structured interventions, and ongoing professional development for teachers in evidence-based reading strategies. Schools must follow state guidelines for literacy instruction and ensure families are informed about intervention plans.
WISCONSIN LEGISLATIONS AND REGULATIONS
1. AB321 Act 20 (2023)
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Summary: This bill focuses on improving early literacy instruction in public schools and includes provisions for assessing reading readiness in students in Grades K-3, with an emphasis on identifying and instructing students at risk for reading difficulties, including dyslexia.
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How This Affects Families and Educators: By implementing early literacy assessments, this legislation aims to ensure that students receive timely interventions based on their individual needs. Families can receive information on their child’s screening assessment results and interventions being provided to them in a timely manner.
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More: AB321
2. AB110 (2019)
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Summary: This bill requires the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction to develop a dyslexia guidebook that provides information on screening, instruction, and intervention strategies for students with dyslexia.
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How This Affects Families and Educators: The guidebook serves as a vital resource for educators in identifying and supporting students with dyslexia. Families can utilize this resource to better understand dyslexia and advocate for their children's educational needs.
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More: AB110
3. SB461 (2012)
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Summary: This bill establishes the Office of Literacy within the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) to oversee literacy initiatives, including those specifically addressing dyslexia. It aims to improve reading outcomes through enhanced literacy instruction and support.
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How This Affects Families and Educators: The creation of the Office of Literacy will provide a dedicated focus on literacy issues, including dyslexia, ensuring that educators have access to resources and training. Families can expect improved communication and support regarding their children's literacy development.
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More: SB461
4. Chapter PI 11.36 (Subsection 6) (Specific Learning Disabilities)
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Summary: This subsection outlines the requirements for identifying specific learning disabilities, including dyslexia, within Wisconsin's special education regulations. It emphasizes the need for comprehensive evaluations and appropriate interventions.
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How This Affects Families and Educators: This regulation ensures that students with dyslexia are identified accurately and receive necessary support services. Families can rely on these regulations to advocate for their children's rights to appropriate educational interventions.
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More: Chapter PI 11.36
TEACHER CERTIFICATION AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT REQUIREMENTS
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All educators in Wisconsin are encouraged to participate in professional development focused on dyslexia identification and intervention strategies.
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Training should include:
- Evidence-based instructional practices for teaching reading.
- Identification processes for students with characteristics of dyslexia.
- Implementation of interventions through a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) framework.
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All K-3 educators, reading specialists, and administrators must receive the Lexia LETRS training by July 1, 2025, or another similar training program that is offered by the Leadership in Literacy Institute.
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All college/university instructors teaching a reading methods course must also receive this training.
More:
MORE WISCONSIN STATE RESOURCES
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Wisconsin Department of Education - Professional Development & Training
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Wisconsin Family Assistance Center for Education, Training &Support (WI FACETS)
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