WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SF 286

A bill for an act relating to education, including by modifying provisions related to the national board certification pilot project and establishing the advanced dyslexia specialist endorsement competitive scholar program within the college student aid commission, and including effective date provisions.

2025-2026 Regular Session

Iowa establishes a competitive scholarship program for educators pursuing advanced dyslexia specialist endorsements to increase specialized literacy instruction in schools.

Subcommittee recommends passage.
#appropriations #collegestudentaidcommission #dyslexia #education #educationdepartment #pilotprograms #reports #schooldistricts #teachers #treasurerofstate #tuition
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SF 286

Legislative bill overview

SF 286 modifies Iowa's national board certification pilot project and creates a new competitive scholarship program for advanced dyslexia specialist endorsements through the College Student Aid Commission. The bill provides financial incentives to encourage educators to obtain specialized certification in dyslexia instruction.

Why is this important

Dyslexia affects approximately 5-10% of the school-age population, yet many educators lack specialized training to support these students. By establishing a scholarship program tied to dyslexia specialist credentials, Iowa aims to increase the availability of trained professionals in schools, potentially improving literacy outcomes for struggling readers and reducing special education referrals.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding: The bill requires appropriations for scholarships but the fiscal impact and funding source aren't detailed in the summary; legislators may debate whether this represents new spending or reprioritization
  • Program specificity: Questions may arise about eligibility requirements, scholarship amounts, repayment obligations (if any), and whether the program targets rural or urban districts
  • National Board Certification changes: The modifications to the existing pilot project lack detail; stakeholders may dispute whether changes strengthen or weaken current certification pathways

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.