Dyslexia

The Arizona Department of Education is focused on the importance of teaching children to read. Progress in reading development begins with Arizona’s teachers implementing systematic and explicit instruction across all the elements of reading, including following the MTSS process of tiered instruction. The legislation in A.R.S §15-704 is designed to help identify students with characteristics of dyslexia so interventions can be in place.   

Dyslexia Training Designee Grant Update:

ADE is pleased to offer the Dyslexia Training Designee Grant. There is $1 million allocated to help offset the cost of training for LEAs. LEAs who successfully complete an application will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. Carryover is not allowed.  For questions regarding the DTD grant, please reach out to Katie Lewis.

Guidance on the DTD Grant FY26

Important dates:

  • Grant opens - July 1
  • Last day LEAs can apply - May 1
  • Reimbursement requests-June 10
  • Funds must be used by - June 30                                                            


HB 2060 has added more educators who could qualify as the Dyslexia Training Designee. Due to this legislative change, now any K-3 Literacy Coach, or K-3 Literacy Specialist can take the three required trainings and will meet the requirements. For more information, please reach out to Katie Lewis.

“Dyslexia” means a specific learning disorder 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 the growth of vocabulary and background knowledge.

Dyslexia Training Designee Approved Trainings and Guidance

As required by ARS 15-211, the Dyslexia Training Designee (DTD) can be any Kindergarten through Third Grade teacher on a given campus.

  • Any campus that serves K-3 students must identify at least one DTD for that campus.
  • HB 2060 has added more educators who could qualify as the Dyslexia Training Designee. Due to this legislative change, now any K-3 Literacy Coach, or K-3 Literacy Specialist can take the three required trainings and will meet the requirements.
  • This list provides information on the required approved dyslexia training. Each vendor submitted materials that had to meet the requirements of the legislation per the RFI process. Those learning opportunities that met the requirements were shared on the final list. 

**Please note, trainings must be provided by the vendor. Trainer-of-trainer models will not fulfill the requirements.

**Please also note, these trainings do not remove the Dyslexia Deficiency on teaching certificates. More information about the Dyslexia Deficiency can be found on the K-5 Literacy Endorsement webpage.

Universal Literacy and Dyslexia Screener Approved List and Guidance

The current list will be reviewed again in 2027 to ensure that all Universal Literacy and Dyslexia Screeners meet Arizona early literacy legislation and policy, including providing accommodations for students with disabilities. Any vendors who wish to be on the list may apply when the window reopens January 1, 2027.  

Vendors who would like to apply after January 1, 2027 for the Universal Literacy and Dyslexia Screener RFI need to email Katie Lewis for additional information. 

Approved Screener Videos:

AZ Dyslexia Handbook

The Dyslexia Handbook is designed for teachers and administrators to help them recognize characteristics consistent with dyslexia and how to aid students with dyslexia. Educators at all levels must have a deep understanding of reading to pinpoint gaps in student learning. This document also provides technical assistance to support families.

Dyslexia Family Resource Guide

The Dyslexia Resource Guide for Families provides an overview of the definition of dyslexia, characteristics consistent with dyslexia by age, and how families can support their child with dyslexia. This resource guide also provides a helpful question and answer section.

Dyslexia Family Resource Guide (Spanish)

The Dyslexia Resource Guide for Families in Spanish provides an overview of the definition of dyslexia, characteristics consistent with dyslexia by age, and how families can support their child with dyslexia. This resource guide also provides a helpful question and answer section.

ADE Resources

External Agency Resources

Professional Learning - All Dyslexia-related professional learning opportunities from ADE can be found on the ELA Professional Learning page.

 

 

**The views and opinions expressed in any third-party resource do not necessarily reflect those of the Arizona Department of Education (ADE) and do not imply an endorsement by ADE.