Dyslexia Services
What is Dyslexia?
The definition of dyslexia in Iowa law now matches the International Dyslexia Association’s Definition.
“Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that is neurobiological in origin. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities. These difficulties typically result from a deficit in the phonological component of language that is often unexpected in relation to other cognitive abilities and the provision of effective classroom instruction. Secondary consequences may include problems in reading comprehension and reduced reading experience that can impede the growth of vocabulary and background knowledge.”
A diagnosis of dyslexia is not needed in order to receive support.
With or without a formal diagnosis of dyslexia, and with or without an IEP or 504 plan, if any student shows indicators of academic need, teachers are able to provide support and strategies for all students.
Iowa is the only state in the country that is non-categorical regarding special education, meaning it does not use the specific disability categories listed in the IDEA when classifying a student as eligible for special education. We serve students with a variety of disabilities regardless of whether they have a formal diagnosis or not.
District Dyslexia Goals
Implement intensive intervention services for students with the characteristics of dyslexia
- Providing support for Wilson Language implementation
- Modeling, Observing, Coaching
- Assisting with assessment
- Working with students
Increase staff’s knowledge of dyslexia and skills for meeting the needs of students with the characteristics of dyslexia
- Professional learning / sharing resources / collaborating / problem solving
Create dyslexia friendly classrooms
- Professional Development
- Modeling instructional strategies
- Collaborating and problem-solving with teachers to provide appropriate supports
These goals represent the recommendations of the Dyslexia Task Force Report, which lead to the Senate File 2356.
Dyslexia Facts
- Dyslexia affects 5 to 20% of the population to various degrees (American Academy of Pediatrics)
- 80% of children with a specific learning disability have dyslexia. (IDA)
- Students do not outgrow dyslexia.
- Individuals with mild, moderate, and even severe dyslexia can successfully learn to read and write through intensive multisensory structured language instruction provided by a skilled educator. (Yale Center for Dyslexia & Creativity)