HI HCR171

Requests the State Auditor to perform an audit of the Department of Education's efforts and efficiency in supporting students with dyslexia.

Auditor must submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the Regular Session of 2016.

Report must include information on Department of Education steps for recognizing dyslexia, enrolling students in specialized programs, number of students in each program, and staffing levels of reading teachers, reading specialists, and literacy specialists by grade level.

Notes that dyslexia affects up to 20 percent of the U.S. population and that federal law (IDEA) mandates support for students with specific learning disabilities including dyslexia.

Addresses concerns that the Department of Education may not be properly training educators in early recognition of dyslexia or providing appropriate teaching tools for affected students.