Back to school brings so much excitement for parents, students, and teachers. A new year begins and brings with it so much excitement and hope. But for some parents and students, that excitement can turn to reminders of struggles just months prior as summer approached. School, for some, is hard---if not socially, academically. And as September fades to October, report cards, teacher meetings, and assessments begin to show where students stand.

Reading is hard for many children. Each year, the National Association of Educational Progress (NAEP), known as “The Nation’s Reading Test” reports its findings. In 2022, 61% of South Carolina’s fourth graders were at or above NAEP Basic (NAEP Basic denotes partial mastery of the knowledge and skills that are fundamental for proficient work at a given grade). Just 32% of fourth graders scored at or above NAEP Proficient (NAEP Proficient represents solid academic performance for the given grade level and competency over challenging subject matter)

These challenges compound for children with learning disabilities. Surprising to many, 80% of all Learning Disabilities are comprised of Reading Disabilities (Dyslexia). According to the Yale Center for Dyslexia and Creativity, Dyslexia affects up to 20% of the population.

Here are some key facts to consider

·       Dyslexia and Intelligence are NOT related. Many people with Dyslexia are very bright.

·       Children at risk of Dyslexia can be identified as early as pre-school, and accurately diagnosed by first grade. (no need to wait till third grade— early intervention has big benefits)

·       Children with Dyslexia are NOT Lazy, and do not need to “just try harder.” They need to be taught differently with certified teachers

·       Holding a child back will not solve the problem. According to several institutions (i.e., U.S. Department of Education, American Federation of Teachers, National Association of School Psychologists), there is no benefit to retention because it has never improved a student’s academic struggles. 

·       ADHD and Dyslexia are distinct conditions. However, it is estimated that 30% of those with dyslexia have coexisting AD/HD.

 How can you assess if your child needs help?

There is no single dyslexia test. It is a combination of developmental and educational performance and medical history, teacher questionnaires, vision and hearing tests, psychoeducational assessment, and tests for reading and other academic skills.

Please feel free to reach out to me at bdorazio@promise-school.com if you have questions.

Brandie D’Orazio

Co-founder, Head of School