What is Dyslexia?

Dyslexia is a learning disability that specifically affects a person’s ability to process written language. Studies have shown that, when reading, people with dyslexia utilize parts of their brain differently than non-dyslexics. It is believed that the breakdown occurs in identifying and manipulating individual sounds in words. This breakdown affects a person’s ability to decode and recognize words quickly. which makes reading difficult. 

The legal rights of students with dyslexia are guaranteed through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act 2004 (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Program Overview

All of the dyslexia programs in Judson ISD are scientifically research-based. Each campus has a program that provides the type of instruction specifically designed for a learner who has been identified with dyslexia, as recommended in The Dyslexia Handbook 2018 Update. Instruction is multisensory, systematic, and intensive in nature.

Instruction

The programs available at JISD use direct, explicit teaching of letter-sound relationships, syllable patterns, and meaningful word parts, and provide a great deal of successful practice of skills that have been taught. Fluency-building exercises, vocabulary instruction, language comprehension, and writing are also included in the comprehensive intervention.

Accommodations

Some students with dyslexia require accommodations to help with their success in the school environment. The following is a list of the most common classroom accommodations provided to these students:

• Extra time on assignments
• Copy of written notes
• Oral administration on tests
• Preferential seating

A proud moment for our Dyslexia Program - Dorothy Cardenas, Certified Academic Language Therapist at Olympia Elementary, was recognized at the January Board Meeting as the Overall Distinguished Educator for Elementary.  She is pictured here with the Judson School Board, Superintendent Jeanette Ball, and her Principal Karli Sitton.