Illinois

A comprehensive overview of Illinois’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

Illinois promotes teacher training in dyslexia detection, intervention, and evidence-based literacy instruction. The state department is tasked with developing guidance and lists regarding screening tools, literacy core and intervention practices, and professional development modules. These laws aim to create a culturally-responsive learning environment for all students, including those with dyslexia.

Illinois Legislations and Regulations

Public Act 103-0402 (2023)

Read here

Summary

This act requires the development of a state literacy plan to provide guidance on screening tools, literacy curricula and instruction, professional development, and systems of support for educators.

How This Affects Families and Educators

The state literacy plan aims to improve reading instruction for all students, including those with dyslexia. Teachers will have access to more comprehensive resources and guidance for literacy screening tools, curricula materials, and instructional practices.

Public Act 98-0705 (2014)

Read here

Summary

This act requires the Illinois State Board of Education to incorporate the IDA definition of dyslexia into administrative rules. It also establishes an advisory group to develop modules of professional development for educators on reading disabilities, including dyslexia.

How This Affects Families and Educators

This law ensures that Illinois defines dyslexia with the same definition as most other states, with the adoption of the IDA definition. Families can expect more informed teachers and improved support for their children with dyslexia.

Illinois Administrative Code Title 23, Section 226.125

Read here

Summary

This regulation defines dyslexia using the IDA definition and outlines the requirements for evaluating and identifying students with dyslexia within the context of specific learning disabilities.

How This Affects Families and Educators

Provides a clear definition of dyslexia and ensures that students suspected of having dyslexia are properly evaluated for special education services.

Teacher Certification and Professional Development Requirements

Candidates for licensure requesting a preschool through grade 3 endorsement, elementary school endorsement, or reading specialist endorsement must pass a written test covering:
- Foundational literacy skills
- Oral Language
- Bilingualism and biliteracy
- Reading comprehension development
- Reading assessment
The State Board of Education is mandated to provide professional development opportunities related to the Comprehensive State Literacy Plan and reading disabilities, including dyslexia, on its website and to school district personnel.
Professional development is tailored for general education teachers, special education teachers, ESL teachers, instructional support staff, administrators, supervisors, child study team members, and speech and language specialists.
The State Board of Education must provide technical assistance for specific learning disabilities to school districts.