Bill > SB1001

This bill addresses reading proficiency and dyslexia support in Hawaii's public schools by requiring the Department of Education to implement comprehensive screening and intervention strategies starting in the 2026-2027 school year. Specifically, the bill mandates dyslexia-sensitive universal screenings for kindergarten through third-grade students, which will assess various language and literacy skills such as phonological awareness, decoding, alphabet knowledge, and oral reading fluency. The legislation defines dyslexia as a specific learning disability characterized by difficulties with word recognition and spelling, and requires schools to provide evidence-based interventions for students identified as having dyslexia or struggling with reading through the Hawaii multi-tiered system of supports. Additionally, the bill requires the department to offer professional development for teachers on structured literacy instruction, which involves detailed, systematic teaching methods that provide explicit guidance and immediate feedback. The bill also mandates collaboration with pre-service teacher programs to ensure that both general and special education teacher candidates are trained in structured literacy instruction, with the ultimate goal of improving reading proficiency and supporting students with language and literacy challenges.

Education

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1001&year=2026