Current estimates show that more than 1 million student in California have dyslexia, a neurological condition that can make it difficult for people with the disorder to read and interpret symbols despite normal intelligence levels. Unfortunately, the best schools for dyslexia often aren’t found in the public education system: instead, the best schools for dyslexia are commonly some of the top boarding schools in America, which are also usually the best schools for ADHD and Aspergers as well. In light of recent changes to an important bill, many parents of dyslexic students will likely be searching for these great boarding schools for dyslexia in coming months: while it has yet to be approved, a new bill that would help train schools to better identify and help dyslexic students has already been significantly reduced by state lawmakers.
Currently, public schools in California don’t screen for dyslexia. However, education advocates have pointed out additional attention from teachers who understand the disorder’s impact can have a significant impact on a student’s progress. For this reason, a number of parents with dyslexic children choose to send their students to private tutors or some of the best schools for dyslexia, a decision which can often help them overcome their disability.
Unfortunately, some parents simply don’t have the resources to afford these solutions. As a result, a bill was brought before California state lawmakers that would have screened all kindergarten to third grade students annually for a number of disabilities, including dyslexia. If students were found to have a disability, they would then have been directed to teachers who were properly trained to address their needs. However, opponents claimed that the screening component would be too expensive and struck it from the bill. Now, parents and teachers are petitioning the legislators to pass the training measure.
Advocates have already spoken out about the lawmakers’ decision, pointing out that without a program specific to dyslexia, children will continue to struggle academically and emotionally. Moreover, with 80% of children in California special education programs suffering from dyslexia, they say that decision to not screen for the disorder and use appropriate teaching strategies could be costing the state millions of dollars a year.
If the bill is passed and signed by the governor, the new training guidelines would go into effect by the 2017-2018 school year. However, in the mean time and afterwards, many parents will likely continue seeking out the best schools for dyslexia, seeing it as a better resource for their students.