Bill > SB421

This bill addresses literacy and dyslexia screening in Hawaii's public schools by requiring the Department of Education to implement comprehensive screening and support measures for students from kindergarten through third grade. Starting in the 2026-2027 school year, all public schools must administer a qualified dyslexia screening tool that evaluates key literacy skills such as phonological awareness, decoding, alphabet knowledge, and oral reading fluency. The bill mandates that the department continue its existing English language arts universal screenings for students in kindergarten through ninth grade and provide evidence-based interventions for struggling readers through the Hawaii multi-tiered system of support (HMTSS), a framework designed to rapidly respond to student needs. Additionally, the legislation requires the department to collaborate with teacher training programs to ensure that prospective general and special education teachers are trained in structured literacy instruction, which involves explicit, systematic teaching of reading and writing skills. The bill also defines key terms like dyslexia and structured literacy instruction, highlighting Hawaii's commitment to improving student literacy rates and addressing learning challenges. To support these initiatives, the bill appropriates funds for implementing dyslexia-sensitive universal screening and aims to help students develop strong reading skills early in their educational journey.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=421&year=2026