October is recognized as Dyslexia Awareness Month in the Los Angeles Unified School District (10-17-23)

October is recognized as Dyslexia Awareness Month in the Los Angeles Unified School District

Los Angeles (October 17, 2023) – A resolution sponsored by Board Vice President Scott M. Schmerelson, co-sponsored by board members Dr. George J. McKenna III, Nick Melvoin, and Kelly Gonez, and approved by all members on the board, recognizes October as Dyslexia Awareness Month.

This resolution acknowledges the effect dyslexia has on students, the screening mandate from California, and how the District is ensuring academic excellence by committing to community outreach and distributing informational materials regarding dyslexia.

“We must do all we can to ensure student success, and I am happy to see both this district and state meet the challenges brought on by dyslexia,” said Board Vice President Scott M. Schmerelson. “The earlier our teachers can detect dyslexia in students, the better-equipped staff and parents can be to meet the needs of our students and help set them up for success in grade school and beyond.”

“This month, we are bringing awareness to one of the most common language-based learning differences in our society,” said Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho. “Los Angeles Unified is committed to meeting our students where they are, and elevating them to their highest potential. This includes building meaningful connections with our students and providing resources and proper intervention for those struggling with Dyslexia.”

“Early screening for dyslexia makes a world of difference in a student's educational journey,” said Board President Jackie Goldberg. “I'm proud that in designating this Dyslexia Awareness Month, we're giving more students the tools and support they need to be successful.”

“Providing the ability to assess and offer resources to our students with dyslexia early will accelerate student success,” said Board Member Dr. George J. McKenna III.

“Dyslexia and other language-based learning disabilities have a profound impact on our students, and yet the District does not screen for dyslexia as part of the IEP assessment process,” said Board Member Dr. Rocío Rivas. “By bringing awareness to this issue, I am hopeful that we can empower schools and families to provide information, support and interventions for those students - diagnosed and undiagnosed - who may be struggling.”

“Dyslexia impacts many of our students and I’m proud that we are able to both bring attention to this disability and take the important steps to screen students for reading difficulties at a young age so we can provide early interventions and offer the support to ensure they can learn and thrive,” said Board Member Nick Melvoin.

“As we work to support the District’s goal of increased literacy, we must ensure we are screening for dyslexia and providing supports to all students who are having reading difficulties,” said Board Member Kelly Gonez. “Recognizing Dyslexia Awareness Month can help ensure our schools and our families know what to look for so all students get the support they need to become proficient readers.”

“Dyslexia Awareness Month is a moment for us to learn about and double-down on addressing the impacts of learning differences and challenges,” said Board Member Tanya Ortiz Franklin. “Recognizing our students' needs with screening and staff training is essential to ensure that no learning challenge goes unnoticed in any subject where students may need extra support.”

“It is necessary that we recognize the implications of dyslexia in our students and provide the support to ensure that all students are prepared for success,” said Student Board Member Karen Ramirez. “I am proud to join the district as we emphasize the importance of informing and educating our Los Angeles Unified community about the importance of screenings for dyslexia to provide students with the help they deserve.”