According to the requirements for Intensive Reading Instruction (IRI) as described in Ark. Code Ann. § 6-15-2004(a)(2):

Any student who exhibits a substantial deficiency in reading, based upon statewide assessments conducted in grades kindergarten through two (K-2), or teacher observations, shall be given intensive reading instruction based on the science of reading as soon as practicable following the identification of the reading deficiency.

The student shall continue to be provided with intensive reading instruction until the reading deficiency is corrected.

The parent or guardian of any student who exhibits a substantial deficiency in reading, as described above, shall be notified in writing of the following:

• That his or her child has been identified as having a substantial deficiency in reading;
• A description of the current services that are provided to the child; and
• A description of the proposed supplemental instruction services and supports that will be provided to the child that are designed to remediate the identified area of reading deficiency.

With the completion of each administration of the K-2 assessments, school personnel are reminded to use the results from these assessments, in conjunction with other school data (including dyslexia screeners), to identify students with a reading deficiency.  While there is not a state-required template or form for the IRI, a sample form is provided: IRI Sample Form (not required).

The reading test for students in grade 2 may differ depending on the assessment given, the student’s reading ability, and test results.  Schools should follow the guidance provided by each assessment vendor to identify which grade 2 assessment students should take.  Schools must note that students in grade 2 who do not score in the range to move to the recommended reading test should be considered for intensive reading instruction.

The charts below provide the recommended scores that would qualify students for consideration of intensive reading instruction.