October is Dyslexia Awareness Month, and the Huntington Beach City School District (HBCSD) is proud to reaffirm its commitment to raising awareness and providing support for students affected by dyslexia. Thank you to our Board of Trustees for passing a resolution for the eighth consecutive year proclaiming October as Dyslexia Awareness Month.
Dyslexia is an unexpected difficulty in reading for an individual who has the intelligence to be a much better reader. These difficulties are typically caused by differences in phonological processing (the way the brain recognizes, interprets, and uses the individual sounds of language), which primarily affect the ability to read and spell.
Key Facts About Dyslexia:
It is estimated that 1 in 5 people have dyslexia.
Dyslexia is the most common of all learning disabilities.
Dyslexia affects people from different cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds nearly equally.
Dyslexia is often genetic. Research shows that dyslexia tends to run in families, meaning children of parents with dyslexia are more likely to have it themselves.
Early diagnosis is especially critical for narrowing the achievement gap, which is present as early as first grade.
People with dyslexia often have strengths in higher-level cognitive functions, such as reasoning, critical thinking, concept formation, and problem-solving.
Dyslexia affects individuals on a spectrum from mild to severe. Effective interventions are tailored to meet each person’s specific needs, ensuring the right level of support and strategies for their challenges.
Early intervention is crucial for individuals with dyslexia. With timely screening, diagnosis, evidence-based reading interventions, and appropriate accommodations, students with dyslexia can thrive academically and beyond. HBCSD remains dedicated to identifying and empowering students with dyslexia through comprehensive supports and services tailored to each child’s unique needs.
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