Mississippi Senate Bill SB2809

Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/23
• Refer: 1/16/23
• Failed: 1/31/23

Caption

Dyslexia Therapy Scholarship for Students with Dyslexia Program; expand to allow certified academic language therapists (CALT).

Impact

The bill amends Sections 37-173-1, 37-173-9, and 37-173-21 of the Mississippi Code of 1972 to ensure compliance with the expanded role of CALTs in dyslexia therapy. By doing so, it promotes a more inclusive and accessible framework for dyslexia education across the state. Furthermore, it encourages school districts to hire more professionals trained in dyslexia therapy, which in turn can lead to enhanced educational outcomes for affected students. This legislation emphasizes the need for specialized training and support, aligning with national best practices in education for students with special learning needs.

Summary

Senate Bill 2809 amends several sections of the Mississippi Code to enhance the Dyslexia Therapy Scholarship for Students with Dyslexia Program. The bill expands eligibility for certified academic language therapists (CALT), allowing them to be employed by school districts for providing dyslexia therapy services. This change is aimed at improving educational support for students diagnosed with dyslexia, ensuring that a greater number of qualified professionals can deliver specialized instruction. Schools that employ CALTs can develop tailored programs that better cater to the unique needs of these students.

Contention

While the bill supports the inclusion of CALTs, some stakeholders may have concerns about the funding and resources required to fully implement these changes across all school districts. There may also be discussions regarding the balance between employing CALTs and maintaining existing licensed dyslexia therapists. Ensuring that sufficient funds and structured programs are in place will be critical for the successful enactment of this legislation.