NC H149

State Board of Education shall define dyslexia as a neurobiological specific learning disability characterized by difficulties with word recognition, spelling, and decoding abilities, with this definition included in policies for specific learning disabilities by June 30, 2017.

State Board of Education must provide ongoing professional development opportunities to teachers and school personnel on identifying and providing intervention strategies for students with dyslexia, dyscalculia, and other specific learning disabilities before the 2017-2018 school year.

State Board of Education shall develop and make available electronic information to parents, educators, and concerned groups regarding characteristics of dyslexia, educational methodologies, screenings, and available supports in North Carolina.

Local boards of education must review their diagnostic tools and screening instruments for dyslexia, dyscalculia, and other specific learning disabilities before the 2017-2018 school year to ensure they are age-appropriate and effective, and determine if additional tools are needed.

The bill establishes legislative intent that all students with specific learning disabilities receive appropriate screenings, assessments, and special education services for learning difficulties with language, reading, writing, and mathematics.