The Virginia Language & Literacy Screening System (VALLSS) is the state-provided screening tool for Virginia’s Early Intervention Reading Initiative (EIRI). The purpose of the EIRI is to reduce the number of children with reading problems through early diagnosis and immediate intervention. By screening K-3 students, participating school divisions determine students' level of risk (high, moderate, or low) developing reading difficulties, and receive incentive funds for providing intervention. All students in the high-risk band must receive intervention services in addition to their regular classroom instruction.

Special Education

Since VALLSS is a school-wide screening instrument for all children in grades K-3, all students, including students with IEPs and 504 Plans, are screened. The only students who may be exempt from screening are those whose IEP or 504 Plan team exempts them from participation. You should check with the special education teacher assigned to your child if you need clarification as to your child’s status.

English Learners (ELs)

All English Learners are screened except those whose IEP or 504 Plan team whose IEP or 504 Plan team exempts them from participation.

For more information, please visit the Early Intervention Reading Initiative (EIRI) page on the Virginia Department of Education website: https://www.doe.virginia.gov/teaching-learning-assessment/k-12-standard…