Dyslexia

  • Dyslexia Handbook Update

    On September 3rd, 2021, the State Board of Education (SBOE) gave final approval for updates to the Dyslexia Handbook. Some of the updates to the Dyslexia Handbook may require LEAs to make policy, procedure, and practice changes. The updated Dyslexia Handbook will go into effect on February 10th, 2022.

    The handbook contains guidelines for school districts to follow as they identify and provide services for students with dyslexia. This includes the pathway in which districts evaluate for dyslexia. In addition, information regarding the state's dyslexia statutes and their relation to various federal laws is included. You may access the link below for a downloadable copy of the Dyslexia Handbook. 

    Dyslexia Handbook 2021 Update: Important Changes for Families to Understand (English)

    Dyslexia Handbook 2021 Update: Important Changes for Families to Understand (Spanish)

    Dyslexia Handbook (2021 Update)

    What is Dyslexia?

    “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 growth of vocabulary and background knowledge.” Adopted by the International Dyslexia Association Board of Directors, 2012

    What is Dyslexia Video

     Student Identification

    All students in grades Kindergarten and 1st Grade go through a screening process to identify students who may be at risk for dyslexia (House Bill 1886). Additionally, students beyond first grade may be screened or tested as appropriate. If a student is suspected of having dyslexia and/or a related disorder, the campus will seek parental consent for a Full Individual Initial Evaluation (FIIE) under IDEA. 

    Related Links: MTSS and Child Find

    Updates in Special Education-Texas Education Agency

    Updates in Special Education (Spanish)-Texas Education Agency

    Services Provided if Identified

    If a student is identified with dyslexia, services are discussed and documented through an Admission, Review, Dismissal (ARD) meeting. The committee will review the student's data and collaborate on the resources and services that best meet the student's needs.

    The Rockwall ISD Dyslexia Program currently utilizes a variety of curriculum resources, such as: Scottish Rite Take Flight, System 44, Neuhaus, Multi-Sensory Teaching Approach, and Read 180. 

     Dyslexia Education

    The Rockwall ISD Dyslexia Program strives to spotlight and educate others on dyslexia. Some of the exciting opportunities that have been provided are:

    • Campus Staff Dyslexia Simulations
    • Community/Parent Dyslexia Simulations
    • Dyslexia Family Night
    • Parent Information Nights
    • Yearly staff development (district-wide) on the identification of dyslexia and ways to support students with dyslexia in the classroom

    dyslexia graphic