West Virginia

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

Brief Summary

West Virginia requires universal dyslexia screening for all students in Kindergarten-Grade 3, structured interventions, and annual teacher training in evidence-based literacy instruction. Schools must ensure educators are equipped to identify and support students with dyslexia, while maintaining ongoing communication with families about screening results and intervention progress.

West Virginia Legislations and Regulations

HB3035 - Third Grade Success Act (2023)

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Summary

Requires universal screening for reading difficulties in Kindergarten-Grade 3 and provides evidence-based interventions to identified students within a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). The law also mandates that families are notified of screening results within 15 days of the test’s administration and are provided with resources to support their child’s literacy development at home.

How This Affects Families and Educators

The implementation of clear guidelines will help educators identify and support students with dyslexia more effectively. Families can expect their students to receive more targeted, evidence-based instruction from more knowledgeable educators.

HB2824/West Virginia Code §18-20-10 - Dyslexia Defined (2021)

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Summary

This statute defines dyslexia and dyscalculia within the context of special education in West Virginia. It establishes requirements for identifying students with these specific learning disabilities and mandates appropriate instructional practices.

How This Affects Families and Educators

By defining dyslexia in legal terms, this code ensures that students are recognized as having specific learning needs, allowing for tailored educational support. Families can use this definition to advocate for their children’s rights within the educational system.

Teacher Certification and Professional Development Requirements

  • All educators in West Virginia are required to receive professional development on identifying dyslexia indicators and implementing effective instructional practices.
  • Training should include:
    • Evidence-based strategies for teaching reading.
    • Identification processes for students with characteristics of dyslexia.
    • Implementation of interventions through a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) framework.
  • Local education agencies must ensure that all relevant personnel are trained in recognizing dyslexia signs and providing necessary accommodations.
  • Each local agency may also have a literacy specialist, trained in best practices in identification, accommodations, and instructional strategies for dyslexia, who can serve as a dyslexia advisor and trainer on dyslexia for the agency.

More Info

Teacher Professional Learning (WV Department of Education)