IL HB4632

Establishes definition of dyslexia as a neurobiological specific learning disability characterized by difficulties with word recognition, spelling, and decoding abilities, to be incorporated into general and special education.

Requires school districts to screen all students in kindergarten through second grade for dyslexia risk factors using a universal screener beginning with the 2022-2023 school year, with screenings assessing phonological awareness, sound symbol recognition, alphabet knowledge, decoding, rapid naming, encoding, and oral reading fluency.

Mandates Level I dyslexia screening for students identified as at risk or at some risk following universal screening to determine if students have characteristics of dyslexia, using information such as progress monitoring data, assessments, teacher questionnaires, parent interviews, and family history.

Requires schools to implement a multi-tiered system of support (MTSS) framework for students showing dyslexia risk factors or characteristics, and mandates parent notification with information about dyslexia characteristics, classroom interventions, accommodations, and educational evaluation options.

Directs State Board of Education to adopt screening rules, develop a dyslexia handbook with guidelines on universal screeners and interventions, and provide technical assistance to districts; requires annual reporting of screening data and dyslexia intervention services to the State Board beginning July 1, 2023.