SB 1491 Summary

• Extends the deadline for K-3 teachers to complete dyslexia training from July 1, 2021 to July 1, 2022.

• Requires all teacher certification candidates to complete 45 classroom hours or 3 college credits in research-based systematic phonics, science of reading instruction, and reading instruction with dyslexia training (previously required only phonics and general reading instruction).

• Adds reading instruction proficiency examination requirements for early childhood and elementary education teaching certificates to ensure candidates are prepared for reading instruction.

• Appropriates $800,000 annually from state general fund for school districts and charter schools to provide student dyslexia screening, and $280,000 annually for department of education staff, teacher professional development, and regional training programs related to early literacy and dyslexia.

• Modifies dyslexia screening plan requirements to include nonsense word fluency assessment (previously specified "nonsense word repetition").