Arkansas

A comprehensive overview of Arkansas’s enacted legislation, regulations, certification requirements, and state-provided resources related to dyslexia education.

Brief Summary

Arkansas requires early dyslexia screening, structured interventions, and teacher training in evidence-based reading strategies. Schools must follow the Response to Intervention (RTI) framework and ensure timely support for students showing signs of dyslexia. Educators are mandated to complete professional development hours focused on dyslexia awareness and intervention.

Arkansas Legislations and Regulations

Senate Bill 349/Act 606 (2021)

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Summary

This bill adjusts school funding based on the alignment of reading practices, interventions, and curricula with the science of reading. The bill requires schools to adopt evidence-based methods and penalizes those using practices not aligned with proven strategies. It also establishes the position of an Education Ombudsman to monitor compliance and ensure that schools provide effective reading instruction.

How This Affects Families and Educators

For educators, this legislation mandates the adoption of scientifically-supported reading instruction, ensuring more consistent and effective literacy practices across schools. Families can expect improved reading outcomes for their children.

COM-18-108 (2018)

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Summary

This Commissioner’s Memo outlines the rules governing how to meet the needs of children with dyslexia in Arkansas schools. It includes guidelines for screening, intervention strategies, and the development of a Dyslexia Resource Guide.

How This Affects Families and Educators

The memo provides essential guidance for educators on best practices for supporting students with dyslexia. For families, it clarifies what to expect from schools in terms of support and resources available for their children.

Senate Bill 788/Act 1268 (2015)

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Summary

This bill defines dyslexia, establishes screening requirements for students, focusing on early identification of reading difficulties. It requires schools to use evidence-based interventions for students showing signs of dyslexia, following the Response to Intervention (RTI) process.

How This Affects Families and Educators

This legislation ensures that teachers are equipped with the necessary tools to identify and support students with dyslexia. For families, it provides assurance that their children will receive timely interventions and support tailored to their specific needs.

Senate Bill 33/Act 1294 (2013)

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Summary

This bill requires Arkansas schools to screen K-2 students and others showing reading difficulties for dyslexia. It mandates evidence-based interventions and trained specialists to support students, along with parental notification. The law also requires professional development for educators in dyslexia identification and intervention. It also mandates the development of a dyslexia resource guide.

How This Affects Families and Educators

This act empowers teachers by providing structured guidelines for addressing dyslexia in the classroom. Families benefit from clear expectations regarding the support their children will receive, fostering a collaborative approach between home and school.

Teacher Certification and Professional Development Requirements

  • At least one staff member at each education service cooperative must be trained as a dyslexia specialist to support school districts.
  • All teachers must receive professional development on the characteristics of dyslexia and evidence-based interventions and accommodations.
  • The Department of Education and Department of Higher Education will ensure teacher education programs at state-supported institutions include dyslexia awareness and evidence-based interventions.

More Info

Senate Bill 788