i_i_schoolreadiness_2018a_2018-08-20t09:08:12z2 Hearing Summary

Laura Mitchell and Lindsay Drakos, representing Colorado Kids Identified with Dyslexia, came to the table for their presentation.  Ms. Drakos discussed what dyslexia is and the effects it has on an individual.  She told her family's story of having two dyslexic daughters and their struggles with school and identification.  Ms. Drakos discussed a few statistics of dyslexia including that 108,600 or 12 percent of Colorado students are dyslexic.  She stated that 91 percent of educators with a Bachelor's degree said that they are not prepared to teach students with dyslexia to read and that there is a lack of a targeted long term plan to help kids with dyslexia.  A handout was distributed [Attachment C].

Ms. Mitchell spoke about existing Colorado laws including House Bill 08-1223 and the READ Act.  She stated that dyslexia is still a prominent problem in our schools and isn't getting enough attention.  She discussed a number of legislative opportunities including a clear definition of dyslexia, educator awareness, requiring a universal/ comprehensive dyslexia screener, comprehensive training and professional development, a statewide dyslexic plan, and a widespread community awareness campaign.  Ms. Mitchell responded to questions concerning what schools are doing to address this problem, and specific legislative opportunities for early childhood groups.