Utah

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

Brief Summary

Utah mandates early dyslexia screening, structured interventions, and evidence-based teacher training. Schools must ensure educators are equipped with tools to identify and support students with dyslexia, while maintaining regular communication with families.

Utah Legislations and Regulations

HB296 (2024)

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Summary

This bill requires schools to administer benchmark and diagnostic assessments to identify and support students in grades 1-6 with reading difficulties, including dyslexia. It emphasizes evidence-based interventions, parental involvement, and regular progress monitoring, prioritizing younger students when resources are limited.

How This Affects Families and Educators

Early screening allows for timely identification of students at risk for dyslexia, enabling educators to provide necessary interventions. Families can expect proactive measures to support their children’s literacy development.

SB117 - Interventions for Reading Difficulties Pilot Program (2015)

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Summary

This bill aims to define dyslexia within Utah’s educational code and provide evidence-based literacy interventions for students in kindergarten through fifth grade who are at risk for or experiencing reading difficulties, including dyslexia. It also funds professional development for educators, incorporates a Multi-Tier System of Supports (MTSS) framework.

How This Affects Families and Educators

By formally defining dyslexia in the educational code, this legislation enhances awareness and understanding among educators, leading to improved identification and support for students. Families will benefit from clearer guidelines on how their children can receive assistance.

Teacher Certification and Professional Development Requirements

  • All educators in Utah are encouraged to participate in professional development focused on dyslexia identification and intervention strategies.
  • Training must include:
    • Evidence-based instructional practices for teaching reading.
    • Identification of students with characteristics of dyslexia.
    • Implementation of tiered interventions.
  • School districts are encouraged to adopt policies that align with state guidelines for supporting students with dyslexia.

More Info

Interventions for Reading Difficulties Pilot Program