Los Angeles, CA (Oct. 6, 2026) - A resolution that acknowledges the month of October as Dyslexia Awareness Month was sponsored by Board President Scott M. Schmerelson, Board Vice President Dr. Rocio Rivas, and co-sponsored by Board Members Sherlett Hendy-Newbill, Nick Melvoin, and Karla Griego, and Student Board Member Lesly Avila.
Additionally, the resolution calls on parent centers across the district to inform parents about dyslexia and the mandated screener and to destigmatize reading difficulties.
“As I think about this resolution, I can’t help but feel a little proud of how far we have come as a society to help our students with Dyslexia,” said LAUSD Board President Scott M. Schmerelson. “However, we still have a long way to go, and our work continues even after California passed a law to assist our students with reading difficulties. Now, we have to ensure that we have adequate resources. All of this with a goal to have our students be proficient in reading and ELA by 2030.”
“Dyslexia can affect how a student learns to read, but it does not define a student’s potential," Superintendent Andrés E. Chait said. "During Dyslexia Awareness Month, we reaffirm our commitment to identifying students’ needs, providing evidence-based support, and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to become a confident, successful reader. I am grateful to our educators, specialists and families who work together every day to help our students find their path to success.”
"Every student deserves the support they need to succeed," said Board Vice President Dr. Rocío Rivas. "Early identification, effective reading instruction, and strong support for families and educators can make a lasting difference for students with dyslexia."
“As a co-sponsor of this resolution, I am proud to recognize Dyslexia Awareness Month and raise awareness about the importance of early identification, support, and reducing the stigma surrounding dyslexia,” said Board Member Sherlett Hendy-Newbill. “LA Unified is committed to providing the information and resources every student needs to reach their full potential.”
“Every child deserves the support they need to become a confident reader, and identifying dyslexia and other reading challenges early can make all the difference,” said Board Member Nick Melvoin. “I’m proud to recognize Dyslexia Awareness Month and continue our work to make sure we’re catching these challenges early and giving students the tools and support they need to learn and thrive.”
Dyslexia affects roughly 1 in 5 children, making it the most prevalent learning disability; nevertheless, underdiagnosis and misdiagnosis remain persistent challenges,” said Board Member Karla Griego. “Proud to support this resolution that advocates for ongoing education and heightened awareness regarding dyslexia in collaboration with Parent Centers.”
“By diagnosing and addressing Dyslexia early, our students can receive the support and resources to thrive in school,” said Board Member Tanya Ortiz-Franklin. “This resolution adds to the work we are doing to ensure every student feels seen, their needs are met, and they are uniquely prepared to thrive in college, career and life.”
“I especially like that the resolution highlights early diagnosis, evidence-based intervention, accommodations, and family education,” said Student Board Member Lesly Avila.
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