New York State: Dyslexia/dysgraphia screening proposed for all incoming kindergarteners

Oct 28, 2026, New York could soon require every child to be screened for dyslexia before they even start school

Proposed legislation in New York state would require all public school districts to screen every student for dyslexia and dysgraphia prior to entering kindergarten.

The bills, proposed in the New York State Senate and Assembly, would require all children to be screened for reading and writing difficulties before they start kindergarten. The proposals would require school districts to send a clear and conspicuous notice to parents and guardians to explain the methods used for screening. . . .

The proposed legislation comes after Gov. Kathy Hochul signed separate legislation last year to establish a statewide Center for Dyslexia and Dysgraphia within the New York State Education Department that set universal screening standards for grades K-5, provide teacher training and develop evidence-based interventions.

New York City screens all students for literacy in public schools three times a year. Students who repeatedly score significantly below their peers are selected to participate in programs with specific screenings for dyslexia.