Maine

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

Brief Summary

Maine mandates early screening for students in Kindergarten through Grade 2 who are identified by teachers as having difficulties in phonological and phonemic awareness, sound-symbol recognition, alphabet knowledge, decoding skills, rapid naming skills, and encoding skills. The law also requires structured interventions and teacher training in evidence-based literacy instruction. Schools must implement structured literacy approaches, and educators are required to complete professional development focused on dyslexia.

Maine Legislations and Regulations

Maine HP01630 / LD231 (2015)

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Summary

This legislation defines dyslexia using the International Dyslexia Association’s definition, requires screening for dyslexia for students in kindergarten through grade 2 who have been identified by a teacher as having reading difficulty, and establishes a dyslexia consultant position at the Department of Education.

How This Affects Families and Educators

Improves early identification of students with dyslexia through early screening, and provides schools with expert guidance through the dyslexia consultant.

MRS Title 20-A, §4710-B

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Summary

This statute requires school administrative units to screen students in Kindergarten through Grade 2 who are identified by a teacher as having difficulty in phonological and phonemic awareness; sound-symbol recognition; alphabet knowledge; decoding skills; rapid naming skills; or encoding skills.

How This Affects Families and Educators

Ensures early identification of students with dyslexia, allowing for timely interventions and support.

Teacher Certification and Professional Development Requirements

  • The dyslexia consultant must provide school administrative units with:
    • Dyslexia professional awareness training, including training on indicators of dyslexia.
    • Development and implementation of professional development plans focused on evidence-based screening practices.

More Info

Maine Revised Statutes Title 20-A, §4710-B