Minnesota

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

Brief Summary

Minnesota requires early screening for dyslexia indicators in K-3 students, along with structured interventions using evidence-based literacy practices. Teachers must receive training in identifying dyslexia characteristics and implementing appropriate interventions. Schools are encouraged to use resources and tools aligned with state literacy guidelines to support struggling readers effectively.

Minnesota Legislations and Regulations

Minnesota Statutes Section 120B.12 (Read Act Goal and Interventions)

Read here

Summary

This statute requires schools to identify students who are not reading at grade level and screen them for characteristics of dyslexia. It also mandates the implementation of evidence-based reading instruction and interventions.

How This Affects Families and Educators

Ensures early identification and support for students with reading difficulties, including dyslexia. Teachers must implement evidence-based reading instruction and interventions.

Minnesota Statutes Section 125A.01 - Dyslexia Definition

Read here

Summary

This statute provides the legal definition of dyslexia in Minnesota, describing it as a specific learning disability with neurological origins.

How This Affects Families and Educators

Establishes a clear, legally recognized definition of dyslexia, ensuring consistent understanding and application across educational settings.

Minnesota Statutes Section 122A.092 (Subsection 5) - Teacher Preparation Programs

Read here

Summary

This statute requires teacher preparation programs to include instruction on dyslexia, including its nature, symptoms, and evidence-based instructional strategies.

How This Affects Families and Educators

Ensures that new teachers enter the profession with awareness of dyslexia and the ability to identify potential signs in students.

Minnesota Statutes Section 125A.56

Read here

Summary

This statute mandates school districts to implement at least two research-based interventions for students in kindergarten through grade 12 before referring them for special education evaluation, with an exception for urgent cases, and ensures at-risk students receive multisensory, systematic, and explicit instruction, particularly for reading difficulties.

How This Affects Families and Educators

Ensures students receive appropriate interventions before special education referral, potentially reducing unnecessary evaluations and providing targeted support for struggling readers.

Minnesota Statutes Section 120B.122

Read here

Summary

Requires the Department of Education to employ a dyslexia specialist to provide technical assistance, increase professional awareness, and requires mandatory screening of every child in kindergarten through third grade for foundational reading skills and characteristics of dyslexia.

How This Affects Families and Educators

Improves support and resources for educators working with students with dyslexia, and ensures comprehensive and consistent screening practices across Minnesota schools, leading to early identification and intervention for students with reading difficulties.

Teacher Certification and Professional Development Requirements

  • Minnesota requires teachers to receive training on evidence-based structured literacy instruction.
  • Teacher preparation programs must include instruction on dyslexia, including its nature, symptoms, and evidence-based instructional strategies.

More Info

Minnesota Statutes Section 120B.12