New Jersey Senate Bill S2062

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/3/22
• Refer: 3/3/22

Caption

Establishes pilot program in DOE to provide assistive technology to elementary and middle school students with dyslexia and related conditions.

Impact

The bill recognizes dyslexia as a significant learning disability, affecting approximately 10% of the population, and aims to mitigate its impact on academic success. By providing assistive technology tools, such as text-to-speech software and specialized writing aids, the program is designed to improve reading fluency, comprehension, and written expression in students with dyslexia. This support is critical to fostering greater academic independence and confidence among affected students, enhancing their overall educational experience.

Summary

Senate Bill S2062 establishes a three-year pilot program within the New Jersey Department of Education aimed at providing assistive technology to elementary and middle school students diagnosed with dyslexia and related conditions. This initiative seeks to address the educational challenges faced by these students by enabling them to access curriculum content through various assistive technologies designed to aid reading and writing.

Contention

While the bill garnered support for its goal of improving educational outcomes for students with dyslexia, it may also raise questions regarding resource allocation within school districts. Concerns may arise about the availability of funds and whether the technology will adequately serve the diverse needs of all students. Additionally, some stakeholders may express apprehension about the effectiveness of a pilot program and the potential for it to influence statewide policy on special education and assistive technologies.