Do you believe that dyslexia is the reversals of letters? Do you know anyone that struggles with reading?
According to the International Dyslexia Association, dyslexia is defined as “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 growth of vocabulary and background knowledge.”
Dyslexia is often not diagnosed until a student is struggling in classrooms in upper school or college. Parents often miss signs of dyslexia or are afraid of having their child tested. Improved understanding can assist students in being identified early and then receiving early intervention. While dyslexia never goes away, there are many interventions that can improve the students ability to read, write and perform math.
The Glenn Teaching and Learning Center is offering an informative seminar on dyslexia. We have partnered with Georgia International Dyslexia Association to bring Brenda Fitzgerald to Darlington on Oct. 20. The session will be held in the Upper School Glenn Teaching and Learning Center and will include the film “The Big Picture: Rethinking Dyslexia."
In addition, Brenda will provide an overview of the following topics: characteristics of dyslexia, information on diagnosing dyslexia and information to better understand the most effective remediation interventions and accommodations. This is an open forum. Ongoing questions are encouraged. We are fortunate to have Brenda Fitzgerald as the speaker. Brenda Fitzgerald, Ed.S., is a curriculum specialist whose area of expertise is reading and any disability that interferes with that process.
This event is free and open to the public. You may find out more and register for the event by going to the IDA website. If you have further questions, you may contact Lisa Goldin, director of the Glenn Teaching and Learning Center, at 706-802-4329. I encourage you to attend and invite anyone that is interested in finding out more about dyslexia.
