The bill amends Section 16-67-2 of the Rhode Island Literacy and Dropout Prevention Act to enhance literacy programs and address dyslexia more effectively. It introduces a comprehensive literacy program that includes activities aimed at improving students' performance in reading, writing, speaking, listening, and mathematics, particularly for those in kindergarten through grade three. The bill mandates screening for educational readiness for all children entering school, supplementary literacy instruction for educationally disadvantaged students, and dropout prevention programs tailored to meet the needs of potential dropouts. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of professional development for teachers to support students with dyslexia.

A significant change in the bill is the redefinition of dyslexia, which is now described as a specific learning disability characterized by difficulties in word reading and/or spelling that involve accuracy, speed, or both and vary depending on the orthography. This new definition highlights that these difficulties occur along a continuum of severity and persist even with effective instruction. It also notes that the causes of dyslexia are complex and involve combinations of genetic, neurobiological, and environmental influences. Underlying difficulties with phonological and morphological processing are common but not universal, and early oral language weaknesses often foreshadow literacy challenges. Secondary consequences include reading comprehension problems and reduced reading and writing experience that can impede growth in language, knowledge, written expression, and overall academic achievement. The act underscores the importance of identification and targeted instruction at any age, particularly emphasizing the effectiveness of language and literacy support before and during the early years of education. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
7909: 16-67-2