Establishes pilot program in DOE to provide assistive technology to elementary and middle school students with dyslexia and related conditions.
Impact
Through this program, the Commissioner of Education will allocate grants to participating school districts to cover the costs associated with acquiring assistive technology devices and services as well as training for educators on how to utilize this technology. The legislation mandates that chosen districts submit applications detailing their needs and the number of students affected, ensuring that the program meets the specific requirements of those engaged. Following the pilot, a comprehensive report will be submitted to assess the impact of the program on student performance and provide recommendations for potential statewide implementation.
Summary
Assembly Bill A807 aims to establish a three-year pilot program within the New Jersey Department of Education to provide assistive technology and services to elementary and middle school students diagnosed with dyslexia and related conditions. The bill acknowledges dyslexia as a common learning disability that affects approximately 10% of the population, outlining the specific challenges students with this condition face regarding word recognition, spelling, and decoding abilities. The assistive technology provided will help these students engage with grade-level content more effectively.
Contention
Although the bill presents the potential for improved educational outcomes for students with dyslexia, there may be points of contention regarding varying district capabilities to implement the program effectively. Concerns about funding disparities and access to technology may arise, as not all districts may have the resources required for such advancements. Furthermore, as with many educational reforms, there is a possibility of mixed reactions from educators and administrators regarding the feasibility of integrating new technologies into existing curricula.
Carry Over
Establishes pilot program in DOE to provide assistive technology to elementary and middle school students with dyslexia and related conditions.
Carry Over
Establishes pilot program in DOE to provide assistive technology to elementary and middle school students with dyslexia and related conditions.
Same As
Establishes pilot program in DOE to provide assistive technology to elementary and middle school students with dyslexia and related conditions.
Education initiatives; Education Impact and Innovation Revolving Fund; competitive grants pool; State Department of Education to administer grant program; rubric. Effective date.
Strong Readers Act; removing language establishing three-year pilot program; increasing number of literacy specialists required. Effective date. Emergency.