August 27, 2025
Districts can now choose either assessment to help identify students at risk for reading difficulties, in compliance with state requirements
BLOOMINGTON, MN (Aug. 27, 2025) – Renaissance, a global leader in pre-K–12 education technology, is pleased to announce that Star CBM Reading and FastBridge have both been approved by the Mississippi State Board of Education as dyslexia screeners for students in grades K–1. With this approval, Mississippi districts can now choose either assessment to comply with MS Code § 37-173-15, which mandates that districts screen students for dyslexia in the spring of kindergarten and the fall of grade 1 using a State Board of Education-approved screener.
In approving Star CBM Reading and FastBridge, the State Board of Education acted on the recommendation of the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE), which applied a stringent assessment review process. The MDE requires dyslexia screeners to be reliable and valid; to be developmentally appropriate for K–1 students; and to contain the following components: Phonological Awareness, Phonemic Awareness, Alphabet Knowledge, Decoding skills, Encoding skills, and Rapid Naming.
“Over the past few years, the state of Mississippi has made a tremendous commitment to helping every child build strong foundational literacy skills, and we’ve been pleased to partner with many Mississippi districts on this important initiative,” said Ron Lestock, Regional Vice President at Renaissance. “This approval allows us to further support schools in identifying students with characteristics of dyslexia, so educators can intervene early and provide the supports students need to read successfully.”
This approval adds to Renaissance’s extensive portfolio of state-approved assessments and further validates the company’s commitment to providing educators with reliable, valid, research-based assessments that meet rigorous state standards.
Information about the approval is posted on the MDE website. Mississippi educators and leaders can learn more about Star CBM Reading or FastBridge by visiting renaissance.com.
About Renaissance
As a global leader in education technology operating in more than 110 countries, Renaissance is committed to providing educators with insights and resources to accelerate growth and help all students build a strong foundation for success. We believe that technology can unlock a more effective learning experience, ensure that students get the personalized teaching they need to thrive, and help educators and administrators to truly, fully, See Every Student.
Contact for Media Queries Only:
Tracy Stewart
Director of Marketing Development
Renaissance
(832) 651-1189
[email protected]