HI HB637

Requires all public schools to administer department-approved dyslexia-sensitive universal screening for students in kindergarten through third grade beginning in the 2026-2027 school year, assessing phonological awareness, decoding skills, rapid naming, oral reading fluency, and other literacy components.

Mandates schools implement evidence-based interventions for students identified with dyslexia or flagged as struggling readers through the universal screening process within the Hawaii multi-tiered system of supports framework.

Requires the Department of Education to provide professional learning opportunities for staff on implementing structured literacy instruction and evidence-based interventions.

Directs the department to collaborate with pre-service teacher programs in higher education to ensure general and special education teacher candidates receive training in structured literacy instruction.

Appropriates unspecified funding from general revenues for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 for dyslexia-sensitive universal screeners, effective July 1, 3000.