MO SB548

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education must employ a dyslexia specialist by July 1, 2016, with minimum 3 years field experience in screening, identifying, and treating dyslexia

Dyslexia specialist responsibilities include implementing professional development programs for school districts starting in the 2016-2017 school year, focusing on indicators of dyslexia, teaching methods, and classroom accommodations

Creates a 17-member Legislative Task Force on Dyslexia to advise the governor and general assembly on education and services for individuals with dyslexia, meeting at least quarterly

Task force must develop recommendations for statewide identification, intervention, and support systems within 12 months of first meeting, including approved diagnostic assessments and therapy programs

Task force automatically terminates August 31, 2017, unless reauthorized by the general assembly