Michigan House Bill HB5081

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/26/25
• Refer: 9/26/25

Caption

Education: special education; at least 1 teacher trained in Orton-Gillingham approach principles; require each school district to employ. Amends 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1 - 380.1852) by adding sec. 1253.

Impact

The implementation of HB 5081 will take place at the beginning of the 2026-2027 school year, allowing time for schools to prepare. This legislation could significantly improve the educational support available to students with dyslexia across Michigan as it emphasizes the necessity for specialized teacher training in effective dyslexia instruction. As more teachers gain expertise in the Orton-Gillingham method, it is expected that students' reading skills may improve, ultimately leading to better academic outcomes for those struggling with dyslexia.

Summary

House Bill 5081 seeks to amend the revised school code in Michigan by introducing a requirement for school districts and public school academies to employ at least one teacher trained in the Orton-Gillingham approach to assist students with dyslexia. This bill is aimed at ensuring that children who face reading difficulties receive adequate support through specialized instruction methods that have been proven effective. The bill outlines that this training must align with the standards set by the International Dyslexia Association, thereby enhancing the credibility and effectiveness of the instructional approaches used for these students.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its focus on enhancing educational practices for students with dyslexia, some points of contention may arise regarding the availability of qualified teachers and the resources required for schools to implement these changes. Critics may raise concerns about the cost implications of hiring additional specialized staff and ensuring that all teachers receive the necessary professional development. Furthermore, there could be debates about the adequacy of the parameters defined for training, as well as the practicality of enforcing this requirement uniformly across all school districts.