Mississippi House Bill HB1162

Mississippi 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/25
• Refer: 1/20/25
• Failed: 2/4/25

Caption

MS Dyslexia Therapy Scholarship for Students with Dyslexia; revise eligibility beginning with kindergarten.

Impact

The proposed amendment to the existing scholarship program reflects a growing awareness and responsiveness to the needs of students with learning disabilities, particularly dyslexia. Under the newly amended regulations, local school districts will be required to implement standardized screening for dyslexia, ensuring that all students are evaluated early in their academic journey. This could lead to more timely interventions, helping to improve reading proficiency and overall academic performance for those affected by dyslexia.

Summary

House Bill 1162 aims to amend the Mississippi Dyslexia Therapy Scholarship for Students with Dyslexia Program by expanding its eligibility criteria to include students from kindergarten through grade 12. This bill is designed to assist those diagnosed with dyslexia in securing educational resources and support tailored to their needs. By making these changes, the bill seeks to provide greater access to quality dyslexia therapy across a broader range of schooling, ensuring that younger students can benefit from intervention strategies early in their education.

Contention

While supporters of HB 1162 advocate for increased support for students with dyslexia, there may be points of contention regarding funding for the expanded scholarship program and the capability of schools to adequately administer and provide specialized dyslexia therapy. Critics might express concerns about whether all public schools can meet the increased demand for dyslexia specialists and effective instructional programs, especially in underserved areas. The potential for variations in the quality of therapy provided by different schools may also present challenges that need to be addressed to ensure equity in educational outcomes.