S.B. 421 Summary

• Requires all public schools to administer a department-approved dyslexia screening tool to students in kindergarten through third grade beginning in the 2026-2027 school year, in addition to existing English language arts universal screenings.

• Mandates the Department of Education provide evidence-based intervention for students identified as struggling readers, including those with dyslexia, within the Hawaii multi-tiered system of support framework.

• Defines "structured literacy instruction" as explicit and systematic teaching of phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, and written expression.

• Requires the Department of Education to collaborate with pre-service teacher training programs to ensure general and special education teacher candidates receive training in structured literacy instruction and evidence-based intervention.

• Appropriates funds for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 for dyslexia-sensitive universal screening administration; effective July 1, 2050.