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Reading Difficulties Screener

The California Reading Difficulties Screener (RDRS) is a statewide mandate for K-2 students to assess early reading skills and identify those at risk for reading challenges, like dyslexia, using evidence-based tools like Amplify mCLASS DIBELS, to enable early intervention with targeted support and improve literacy outcomes, with results shared with parents and informing instruction. 

Purpose

  • Early Identification: To spot signs of reading difficulties (including dyslexia) in young learners (K-2).
  • Targeted Support: To help educators provide timely, evidence-based interventions and additional literacy support.
  • Improve Outcomes: To ensure better learning and life outcomes for all students by closing achievement gaps. 

How it Works

  • Mandatory Screening: All K-2 students are screened annually starting in the 2025-2026 school year.
  • Approved Tools: Districts choose from a list of approved screeners that are research-based and appropriate for various languages. Barstow Unified School District has adopted Amplify mCLASS DIBELS 8th edition and Lectura (Spanish version). 
  • Skills Assessed: Measures letter names/sounds, phonological awareness, decoding, fluency, vocabulary, and language comprehension.
  • Administration: Administered by school staff during the day, often online, and takes about 10 minutes. 

Key Points for Parents

  • Results Shared: You will receive your child's results within 45 days.
  • Informs Instruction: Results guide teaching but aren't for high-stakes decisions like retention or special ed eligibility.
  • Bilingual Support: Spanish-speaking students may use Spanish screeners; others are supported with language development considerations. 
  • Parent Opt-Out: Parents and Guardians have the right to opt-out their students from the reading difficulties screener by submitting a written letter to the school. 

 

2025-2026 Reading Difficulties Screener Parent Notification Letter - SPAN

2025-2026 Reading Difficulties Screener Parent Notification Letter - ENGL

 

Parent and Guardian Resources

Parents and Guardians will receive the Home Connect Report/Letter each time students are assessed with mCLASS DIBELS. This website provides additional information and resources to help your students with reading activities.

Amplify mCLASS Caregiver Hub