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Senators mark Dyslexia Day and press for funding to implement statewide screening
Summary
Lawmakers observed Dyslexia Day at the Capitol and urged continued funding and support so that screenings approved by the State Board of Education translate into classroom interventions and professional development.
Senators recognized Dyslexia Day on Tuesday and several members used floor time to press for funding and implementation of statewide screening and intervention tools.
A senator noted that dyslexia affects about “1 in 10 Georgians” and thanked advocates who have worked to expand early screening. The floor speaker pointed to a recent State Board of Education vote — a 10-4 approval of five screening instruments — as a key step, but emphasized that screening is only the first stage.
Why it matters: Screening identifies students who need specialized instruction, but effective results require sustained professional development, literacy coaches, and consistent materials across districts. Senators urged continued appropriations for training and implementation, noting other states’ experiences that highlight the need for ongoing support rather than one-time investments.
The lawmaker urged colleagues to fund literacy coaches and provide professional development so teachers can use screeners to guide instruction. “Screening is just the first step. It's just the diagnosis,” the senator said, adding that districts need resources to implement evidence-based reading instruction.
Ending: Senators committed to continuing work with the Georgia Department of Education and advocates to ensure screeners lead to concrete classroom supports and improved reading outcomes.
