This professional development graduate level course provides educators with an overview of dyslexia, which falls under the diagnostic umbrella of a specific learning disability (SLD). The first half of the course will define the learning disability, debunk associated myths, and explore the benefits of early identification and intervention. The neurological origins and common manifestations of dyslexia, as well as the comorbidity of dyslexia and other learning challenges (such as dyscalculia and dysgraphia), will also be explored. The second half of the course will introduce best instructional practices for supporting students with dyslexia, cover special education laws related to the SLD, and offer alternative perspectives for consideration. The content and strategies presented in this course are rooted in the science of reading (SOR).

This course will help you:

• Define the term dyslexia and debunk myths associated with the learning disability

• Understand the neurological origins of learning challenges for individuals with dyslexia

• Gain awareness of common co-occurring, or comorbid, learning challenges among students with dyslexia

• Learn general best-practice instructional strategies to support students

• Build an understanding of the state and federal statutes that are in place to support students with dyslexia

• Consider alternative perspectives of learning disabilities

For questions about this professional learning opportunity, please contact Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning, Zachary Waddicor.