The bill amends the Revised School Code by adding Section 1253, which mandates that by January 1, 2027, each school district, intermediate school district, or public school academy must employ at least one teacher specifically trained to assist students with dyslexia. This teacher is required to have completed a minimum of 30 hours of training in the Orton-Gillingham approach, which must adhere to standards set by the International Dyslexia Association.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that in addition to the initial training, the designated teacher must receive at least 10 hours of professional development each year focused on supporting students with dyslexia. The Orton-Gillingham approach is defined within the bill as a comprehensive teaching method that includes phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension, utilizing a multisensory strategy to enhance reading and spelling skills.

Statutes affected:
Substitute (H-1): 380.1, 380.1852
House Introduced Bill: 380.1, 380.1852
As Passed by the House: 380.1, 380.1852