Colorado mandates universal dyslexia screening for early literacy intervention

On April 4, 2025, the Colorado State Legislature introduced Senate Bill 200, aimed at enhancing early literacy assessments in schools across the state. The bill addresses ongoing challenges in identifying students with specific reading deficits, particularly in phonemic awareness, word decoding, and spelling, despite the improvements made under the Colorado READ Act.

The primary purpose of Senate Bill 200 is to mandate universal dyslexia screening for students in kindergarten through third grade. Current interim reading assessments, while beneficial, often yield composite scores that can obscure individual deficits in critical reading skills. By implementing universal dyslexia screening, the bill seeks to provide a more precise identification of students who may struggle with reading, ensuring that those at risk receive timely and targeted interventions.

Key provisions of the bill include the requirement for local education providers to adopt or develop a plan for universal dyslexia screening. This approach is designed to reflect best practices in reading competency assessment, focusing on essential skills such as phonological awareness and sound-symbol knowledge. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of strong family engagement in the reading intervention process. Schools will be required to inform parents and guardians about screening results, explain findings, and suggest practical strategies to support reading development at home.

Debate surrounding Senate Bill 200 has highlighted the need for rigorous standards in future evaluations to ensure consistency and validity in identifying dyslexic traits. Supporters argue that the bill will significantly improve early literacy outcomes and reduce the number of students who fall through the cracks due to undiagnosed reading difficulties. However, some opposition has emerged regarding the potential costs and logistical challenges of implementing universal screening across all local education providers.

The implications of Senate Bill 200 are significant, as it aims to close the persistent gaps in early literacy assessments and provide a structured approach to identifying and assisting students with reading challenges. Experts in education and literacy have expressed optimism that the bill could lead to improved educational outcomes and a more equitable learning environment for all students in Colorado.

As the legislative process continues, stakeholders will be closely monitoring discussions and potential amendments to the bill, which could shape its final form and impact on Colorado's education system.