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House approves universal dyslexia screening bill for K–3 with delayed implementation to help rural districts prepare
Summary
The House passed Senate Bill 200 to require universal K–3 dyslexia screening, adding a floor amendment that delays full implementation so rural districts can obtain screening tools and training.
The House approved Senate Bill 200 to create a statewide requirement for universal dyslexia screening of students through third grade and procedures for follow-up supports. An amendment (L007) adopted on the floor postpones the universal implementation date to allow rural districts additional time to secure screening tools and training.
Proponents argued early screening and intervention will help students get on-grade reading levels and reduce downstream problems. Representative Soper, a co-prime, noted research and committee testimony showing a strong correlation between early reading failure and later negative outcomes; he also cited data that dyslexia is overrepresented among incarcerated populations and said early intervention can be preventive.
Committee and floor testimony included moving examples from parents and educators about the emotional and educational harm when dyslexia goes unrecognized. Several members said Colorado has expanded teacher training in the science of reading, increasing districts' ability to follow screenings with evidence-based interventions.
The adopted amendment responds to rural districts’ requests for more time to implement screening tools and access technical assistance; sponsors said many districts already use or have access to screening tools and the amendment avoids immediate strain on districts that lack capacity.
The bill passed by voice vote; sponsors said implementation will use a combination of existing teacher training, locally delivered interventions, and state technical assistance.
