Distinguishing Fact from Fiction

Have you ever thought about how many myths swirl around dyslexia, blocking the path to much-needed support? It is time to bust some common myths and shine a light on the facts, revealing the true face of dyslexia. 

Myth Busted #1: Do you think dyslexia is a medical condition only doctors diagnose? Think again! It is a learning disorder recognized by educational experts.

Debunking Myth #2: Think dyslexia is rare? Think again! It impacts 15-20% of people worldwide, making it far more common than you might think.

Myth Busted #3: Do you think every student with dyslexia gets help? Think again. Sadly, that is a myth far from reality. Only about 5% have identified and received the crucial support they need.

Myth Busted #4: The idea that repeating a grade can "fix" dyslexia is entirely baseless. Dyslexia sticks around for life. But don't lose hope. Armed with the right educational tactics, it can be effectively managed.

Myth Busted #5: Assuming all public schools screen for dyslexia is a misconception! A combination of constrained budgets, a scarcity of professionals trained in identifying dyslexia, and inconsistent screening regulations across states lead to many schools falling short. Consequently, numerous children miss out on vital dyslexia screenings.

Debunking Myth #6: Think dyslexia equals lower intelligence? Think again! Many with dyslexia have average or above-average IQs, showcasing a unique way of processing information.

Myth Busted #7: The common belief that dyslexia screening is mandatory in every state is far from the truth. Unfortunately, my home state of Pennsylvania is one of the ten states that do not yet mandate dyslexia screening, although 40 states have implemented such requirements.

Busting Myth #8: It is outdated to think that schools cannot mention "Dyslexia" in Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and 504 plans. In 2015, the U.S. Department of Education clarified that simply referring to dyslexia as a "specific learning disability" is insufficient. Schools must explicitly acknowledge dyslexia to provide personalized support through appropriate Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and 504 student plans. It is time to update our educational approaches and effect real change.

Busting Myth #9: Do Pennsylvania schools automatically screen for dyslexia? Think again! The truth might surprise you: dyslexia screening isn’t mandatory in the Keystone State. 

Myth Busted #10: The belief that states must await specific mandates to enforce dyslexia screening is unfounded. Why wait for mandates when you have the power to effect change now? Schools possess the transformative ability to impact struggling readers' lives immediately. By adopting dyslexia screening tools and enhancing teacher training, they can pave the way for a more promising future for every student.

Join me in spreading the word and rallying support to create change! Unlocking the potential of those with dyslexia can transform lives. Let’s make a difference together! #DyslexiaAwareness #EducationForAll