Delaware

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

Legislations and
Regulations Teacher Certification
Requirements Resources for Families
and Educators

Brief Summary

Delaware’s dyslexia laws mandate early screening, intervention plans, and teacher training in structured literacy approaches. Schools follow Response to Intervention (RTI) procedures to identify and address reading difficulties. Additionally, educators must complete dyslexia-focused training, ensuring consistent support for students with dyslexia.

Delaware Legislations and Regulations

House Bill 304 (2022)

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Summary

Requires all K-3 students to undergo universal reading screenings three times a year to detect reading deficiencies, including dyslexia, enabling early intervention. The Department of Education is responsible for compiling a list of reading screeners and literacy interventions aligned with the science of reading, incorporating evidence-based practices and multi-tiered support systems.

How This Affects Families and Educators

Families will be informed early about any reading challenges, enabling timely intervention. Educators will have access to a list of approved, research-backed tools to support students. It also emphasizes that all educators should have knowledge of the science of reading and how to teach reading, ensuring they know how to support struggling readers effectively.

Delaware Chapter 300

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Summary

Delaware’s Act amends Title 14 to allow students with severe cognitive disabilities to use portfolio assessments instead of standardized tests, provided their disabilities prevent valid test results. It also mandates evidence-based reading interventions for any student not reading by age seven. Senate Bill 229 was signed into law and incorporated into Delaware Chapter 300, formalizing the provisions related to dyslexia and students with disabilities.

How This Affects Families and Educators

Allows families to request portfolio assessments for students who cannot take standardized tests and mandates reading interventions for students not reading by age seven. Educators must implement structured literacy interventions and track student progress.

Administrative Code Title 14

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Summary

Contains regulations for education in Delaware, including special education provisions.

How This Affects Families and Educators

Provides detailed guidelines for implementing education laws, including those related to dyslexia and other learning disabilities.

Teacher Certification and Professional Development Requirements

Delaware does not have specific certification requirements related to dyslexia for general educators. However, the state requires the use of Response to Intervention (RTI) procedures, which include screening and intervention for reading difficulties that may be related to dyslexia.