Maryland

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

Brief Summary

Maryland mandates early screening for dyslexia, evidence-based intervention strategies, and ongoing teacher training. Schools must provide structured literacy programs, and teachers are required to complete dyslexia-focused professional development.

Maryland Legislations and Regulations

COMAR 13A.03.08 - Students at Risk for Reading Difficulties (2022)

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Summary

Requires Maryland schools to screen all kindergarten students and certain first through third grade students for reading difficulties. It mandates supplemental reading instruction for students identified at risk and outlines evaluation methods for the screening program. This regulation includes guidelines for progress monitoring and annual reporting. Establishes regulations for screening, intervention, and reporting for students at risk for reading difficulties.

How This Affects Families and Educators

Provides a structured approach to identifying and supporting students with reading difficulties, ensuring accountability and standardized practices across schools, and notifying parents of screening results and the supplemental instruction plan.

HSB734 - The Ready to Read Act (2019)

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Summary

Requires screening for reading difficulties, provides supplemental reading instruction, and mandates progress monitoring and reporting.

How This Affects Families and Educators

Ensures early identification and intervention for students at risk of reading difficulties, including dyslexia, through structured screening and reporting systems.

Teacher Certification and Professional Development Requirements

  • Local Education Agencies (LEAs) must provide professional learning for school staff focused on evidence-based, sequential, systematic, explicit, and cumulative instruction for foundational reading skills.
  • All Pre-K-3 staff must be trained in instructional practices related to the Science of Reading within the next few years.
  • Maryland Leads grant recipients must provide professional development aligned to the science of teaching reading for:
    • K-3 educators
    • Special education teachers
    • Principals
    • Literacy specialists

More Info

Ready to Read Act - Maryland State Department of Education