Dyslexia is a specific learning disorder that is neurological in origin and that is characterized by unexpected difficulties with accurate or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities that are not consistent with the person's intelligence, motivation, and sensory capabilities.

This definition of dyslexia is adopted by the 65th WA State Legislature, 2018 Regular Session.

Dyslexia Guidance

• Dyslexia Guidance: Implementing MTSS for Literacy

Implementation

• Students in grades K-2 will be screened for indications of or areas of weakness associated with dyslexia;
• School districts will use Multi-Tiered Systems of Support in grades K-2 to communicate; and
• Districts will collaborate with parents and families about student literacy development, screening results, and potential literacy interventions.

For implementation, please reference the Screening Tools and Best Practices and review the Senate Bill 6162 report for more information.

Dyslexia Advisory Council

The Washington state Dyslexia Advisory Council is tasked with identifying tools and resources that will help screen for dyslexia or indicators of dyslexia. Additionally, they're working to develop recommendations on best practices for implementing the screenings in school districts, staff training to target the areas of need for those experiencing dyslexia or indicators of dyslexia, information for parents and families that includes a list of resources, and best practices to help students in grades three and above who might be experiencing dyslexia.

• Current Dyslexia Advisory Council Members

Updates & Related Laws