Reading and Dyslexia

At Liberty Public Schools, we use a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) to identify and assist students who may need additional support academically, behaviorally, or socially/emotionally.
Screening Process:

• We screen students in grades K-8 three times a year in both reading and mathematics.
• Although we do not diagnose dyslexia, our screening process can identify students who show positive indicators for dyslexia.

Support and Intervention:

• Students identified as at-risk or high risk for reading difficulties receive targeted interventions tailored to their specific needs.
• Regular progress monitoring ensures that we track each student's improvement and provide any additional support they may require.

Our goal is to ensure that every student receives the support they need to succeed academically, behaviorally, and socially/emotionally.

LPS support process flowchart

According to Decoding Dyslexia, Governor Nixon signed House Bill 2379 and Senate Bill 638 on June 22, 2016. Beginning with the 2018–2019 school year, all public schools—including charter schools—are required to conduct dyslexia screenings and provide appropriate classroom supports aligned with guidelines established by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).

Missouri school districts must also provide two hours of in-service training on dyslexia and related disorders to all practicing teachers. To meet this requirement, Liberty Public Schools offers a variety of leveled professional development opportunities focused on topics such as the characteristics of dyslexia, the student experience, and effective instructional strategies for supporting learners with dyslexia.

The following websites might be helpful: 

International Dyslexia Association

Understood

DESE Guidance for serving students at-risk for Dyslexia