The School Code has been amended requiring ISBE to adopt a new rule defining dyslexia by incorporating an “international definition” and creating a new State reading advisory group to develop a professional training module by July 31, 2015, for teachers and administrators in providing effective multi-sensory, systematic and sequential reading instruction.

The International Dyslexia Association currently defines dyslexia as “ … aspecific learning disability that is neurological in origin. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate and /or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities. These difficulties typically result from a deficit in the phonological component of language that is often unexpected in relation to other cognitive abilities and the provision of effective classroom instruction. Secondary consequences may include problems in reading comprehension and reduced reading experience that can impede growth of vocabulary and background knowledge.”

The full text of this Public Act can be accessed at:

Public Act 98-705

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