Dyslexia
Characteristics of dyslexia may include:
- Reading at significantly lower levels despite average or above-average intelligence;
- Difficulty in fluency, spelling, and decoding; and
- Various degrees of difficulty learning names of letters and their associated sounds.
Additionally, reading comprehension problems may be present. If these challenges lead students to read less often, vocabulary growth and background knowledge may be negatively impacted.
PWCS employs reading specialists trained in identifying the appropriate interventions, accommodations, and teaching techniques for students with dyslexia or a related disorder. One of these reading specialists serves as the division's advisor on dyslexia and related disorders. This designee has an understanding of the definition of dyslexia and a working knowledge of:
- Techniques to help a student on the continuum of skills with dyslexia;
- Dyslexia characteristics that may manifest at different ages and grade levels;
- The basic foundation of the keys to reading, including multisensory, explicit, systemic, and structured reading instruction; and
- Appropriate interventions, accommodations, and assistive technology support for students with dyslexia.
The PWCS Dyslexia Co-Advisors are Rebecca Frischkorn ([email protected]) and Diane Fernandez ([email protected]).