Bill > SF0059

This bill establishes the Wyoming Language and Literacy Program to ensure all students from kindergarten through twelfth grade develop strong language and literacy skills, defining key terms like "developmental language disorder" (DLD), which refers to language difficulties not caused by a known medical condition, and "dyslexia," a neurobiological learning disability affecting word recognition and spelling. School districts will be required to implement a comprehensive "District Language and Literacy Plan" (DLLP) that includes using approved screeners and diagnostic assessments to identify students with reading difficulties, providing "evidence-based language and literacy instruction" grounded in the science of reading, and deploying a "multitiered system of support" (MTSS) offering varying levels of intervention. Students identified with reading difficulties will receive an "Individualized Reading Plan" (IRP), and districts must prohibit the "three-cueing system" (a method of teaching reading using meaning, structure, and visual cues) as the sole approach to word recognition. The bill also mandates professional development for school staff on literacy instruction, requires districts to report on student reading proficiency, and amends teacher licensure requirements to include demonstrating literacy competency. Additionally, the state superintendent is authorized to create a literacy division within the Department of Education to oversee the program, approve assessments and instructional materials, and monitor district compliance.

Education

Education (Joint)

https://www.wyoleg.gov/Legislation/2026/SF0059