Kosta Stoyanov of Vazrazhdane told parliament that the party will keep working for early detection and support of children with specific learning difficulties, and for their equal access to education. For years, Vazrazhdane has called for national screening at the end of grade 2.
Stoyanov read his statement from the rostrum of the National Assembly to mark International Dyslexia Awareness Day. He said the first lasting signs of dyslexia, dysgraphia and dyscalculia can be spotted at the end of grade 2.
International data show that 10% to 15% of people have some traits of dyslexia. Stoyanov said that means tens of thousands of Bulgarian children.
Vazrazhdane has put forward several bills to amend the Pre-school and School Education Act. They propose that tests and assessments take place in an accessible setting with assistive technology, including national external assessments and state matriculation exams. The state and schools would have to provide technology support, adapted learning materials and accessible exam papers. The bills also suggest more flexible ways of assessing pupils, based on their needs.
The changes cover pupils with dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, dyspraxia, hyperactivity and other specific learning difficulties. Stoyanov said the aim is that inclusive education and access to technology should no longer depend on the goodwill of individual head teachers and teachers, but become a mandatory national standard.
He added that for thousands of Bulgarian families this day stands for a daily fight with the education system and with a lack of understanding. He said the state cannot plan and run a proper policy for teaching and supporting these children.
Stoyanov asked where these children are, how many have been diagnosed, how many get support and how many fall behind at school without anyone noticing. He said the Ministry of Education and Science owes answers on who diagnoses the children, who trains the specialists and who checks the quality of their work.