Information Letter regarding Dyslexia Screening Law

The Westran R-I School District has established a Dyslexia Screening Plan in accordance with the provisions of Section 167.950, RSMo as outlined by the Missouri Dyslexia Task Force. The following definition of dyslexia is established in MO state code: 
Dyslexia, a disorder that is neurological in origin, characterized by difficulties with accurate and fluent word recognition and poor spelling and decoding abilities that typically result from a deficit in the phonological component of language, often unexpected in relation to other cognitive abilities and the provision of effective classroom instruction, and of which secondary consequences may include problems in reading comprehension and reduced reading experience that can impede growth of vocabulary and background knowledge.
In compliance with the Dyslexia Screening Law, all students Kindergarten to 5th grade will participate in periodic screening at the beginning, middle and end of the school year.  Students 6th to 12th grade will be screened upon referral by teacher or previous intervention referral/supports for concerns with reading difficulties.  The screenings do not diagnose dyslexia but do provide an indication of reading difficulties that may require intervention. 
 Additionally, all teaching staff will receive 2 hours of inservice including: 

o	introduction to dyslexia and dyslexia simulation;
o	key areas of literacy and reading intervention; and
o	screening/progress monitoring, data-based decision-making, fidelity, and classroom supports
o	dyslexia characteristics over a lifetime

For additional information or to review the District Dyslexia Screening Plan please contact your child’s Building Principal or Counselor. Westran R-I School District Mission is to nurture, encourage, challenge and inspire all students and to continue to improve academic standards so that each may take a place in the community as an educated, productive citizen.