A reading difficulties risk screener is a research-based assessment tool used for the early identification of students who may require additional instructional support for reading difficulties, including dyslexia. In California, all students from kindergarten to grade two must be assessed annually using one of the four screeners approved by the state of California. Districts are required to adopt a screener by June 30, 2025, for implementation in the 2025–26 school year.
Universal screeners are most effective when implemented in the early grades as part of a comprehensive, schoolwide strategy for instruction and further evaluation. However, for multilingual learners, careful consideration is needed during the selection, administration, and interpretation of these tools to ensure accurate and equitable use.
This brief highlights key issues to consider and includes questions to guide decision-making during district adoption and implementation, including the interpretation of results for informing instruction and communication with parents and assessment vendors.