Requires training of teachers in dyslexia identification

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Robert Carroll and 1 co-sponsor

Requires K–5 teachers to obtain certified training in dyslexia identification through the Center for Dyslexia and Dysgraphia to improve early detection and intervention.

REFERRED TO HIGHER EDUCATION

Purpose and intent

Amend the Education Law to require training of teachers in dyslexia identification for certification to teach kindergarten through fifth grade.

The goal is to ensure educators can identify children with dyslexia and related reading difficulties, improving early intervention and educational support.

Key provisions and changes

New requirement: The commissioner of education must certify and mandate training for teachers in dyslexia identification.

Applicability: Training is required to receive or renew certification to teach grades K–5.

Source of training: Training must be obtained from the Center for Dyslexia and Dysgraphia, established under § 319 of the Education Law (as added by L 2025, ch. 615).

Center responsibilities: The Center for Dyslexia and Dysgraphia must include in its training program:

Curricula standards
The number of training hours required
Requirements for providers of the training
Requirements for demonstrating successful completion of the training

Who would be affected

Final recipients: Individuals pursuing or renewing New York State teaching certification for grades K–5.

Training providers: The Center for Dyslexia and Dysgraphia would set standards and oversee provider qualifications and curricula for the training.

Schools and districts: Indirectly affected through teacher credentialing and the presence of trained staff capable of identifying dyslexia early.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Effective date: The act would take effect on July 1 of the year following the law’s enactment.

Immediate regulatory actions: The amendment authorizes the necessary rulemaking and regulations to be adopted and implemented by the effective date.

Ongoing administration: The Center for Dyslexia and Dysgraphia will oversee content, hours, provider standards, and completion verification as part of the certification process.

Practical impact and considerations

Objectives: Improve early detection of dyslexia in K–5 classrooms to support timely instructional accommodations and interventions.

Implementation considerations:

Establishing clear training hours and content standards may require resources for teacher professional development and scheduling.
Credentialing processes will need to integrate the new dyslexia identification training into the existing certification and renewal framework.
Schools may experience a period of transition as districts recruit, train, or re-certify staff under the new requirement.

Summary

Bill A 10968 proposes a statutory requirement that all teachers of students in kindergarten through fifth grade obtain certified training in dyslexia identification, delivered through the Center for Dyslexia and Dysgraphia. It sets standards for curriculum, hours, providers, and demonstration of completion, with implementation beginning on July 1 of the year after enactment. The overarching aim is to strengthen early recognition of dyslexia and support targeted educational interventions.

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