Mayor Eric Adams will launch new pilot programs for students with dyslexia at two public schools, and increased literacy screenings at scores of others – the latest elements of his plan to help the city’s struggling readers.
The mayor, who speaks frequently about his own struggles with dyslexia, said Thursday the city will eventually deploy universal literacy screenings for all students; he aims to have schools that specialize in dyslexia in each borough by fall 2023.
According to a press release, starting next fall, the city will train teachers at 80 elementary schools and 80 middle schools to screen students for reading challenges. The city will also launch new programs at PS 161 in the Bronx and PS 125 in Manhattan for students with dyslexia and other language-based learning disabilities. Department of Education employees – called Academic Intervention Support Coordinators – in each district office will work with schools to help identify and support students who need help.
