Dyslexia and Related Disorders
The International Dyslexia Association defines “dyslexia” as a specific learning disability that is neurobiological in origin.
Dyslexia 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.
Professional Learning Opportunities
ESC Region 11 offers a variety of dyslexia instructional programs:
Dyslexia Therapist Training Program - Take Flight: A Comprehensive Intervention for Students with Dyslexia program from the Luke Waites Center for Dyslexia and Learning Disorders at Scottish Rite for Children in Dallas, Texas.
The training program is open to individuals with a college degree who are pursuing training to become a Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT). This two-year advanced comprehensive training is designed for teachers serving students identified with dyslexia and uses research-based, proven intervention techniques. Participants are required to attend 200 instructional hours and complete 700 practicum teaching hours during the two years.
Candidates for training must:
- Be employed by a public, charter, or private school
- Hold a valid Texas teaching certificate
- Hold a Bachelor's Degree or higher
- Complete an application process
Dyslexia Intervention Fundamentals with Reading by Design - Learn the fundamentals of dyslexia intervention through a review of the Texas dyslexia laws and current research as well as best practices in dyslexia instruction. Delve into evidence-based components of instruction and explore the continuum for developing reading ability in students with dyslexia.
Learn how to deliver daily intervention utilizing Reading by Design, a systematic, explicit, and intensive reading program.
Candidates for training must:
- Bachelor's Degree
- Texas teaching certificate
- Employed by an LEA or charter school