The bill amends and reenacts R.S. 17:392.11(B) and (C) and enacts R.S. 17:392.11(D) to enhance the screening and diagnosis of dyslexia in students within Louisiana's public schools. It mandates the state Department of Education to select a dyslexia screener that meets specific psychometric standards and provide it at no cost to public schools. The screener must be administered by classroom teachers to students in the latter half of kindergarten or upon request from parents or guardians. If a student is identified as at risk for dyslexia, parents or legal guardians must be notified within thirty days, and they can request a core assessment for a formal diagnosis.

The core assessment can be conducted by either the school or an approved vendor, focusing on various aspects of reading and linguistic abilities. The bill outlines the qualifications for those administering the assessment and establishes a reimbursement process for the costs incurred, whether the assessment is conducted by the school or an external professional. Additionally, public school governing authorities are required to report annually on the incidence of dyslexia among students, including specific data on those identified through Section 504 Plans and Individualized Education Plans. The implementation of these provisions is contingent upon legislative funding.

Statutes affected:
SB336 Original: 17:11(B)
SB336 Engrossed: 17:11(B)
SB336 Reengrossed: 17:11(B)
SB336 Enrolled: 17:11(B)
SB336 Act 517: 17:11(B)