Ohio Dyslexia Law

Right now a state wide effort is underway to get a Dyslexia Law passed in Ohio. This is necessary to ensure that students are screened and taught properly if they are dyslexic or struggling in reading. Many people, including legislators, know NOTHING about dyslexia. This forthcoming legislation is critical in order to help all children reach their true potential. I have already personally met with congressman, governors and senators to discuss the importance of understanding dyslexia, early screening, better teacher training, and more effective technological support within our Ohio schools.

Are you aware that...

• Dyslexia has absolutely nothing to do with intelligence. Most dyslexics are above average in intelligence and are extremely creative and multidimensional thinkers.
• At least 10% of children in US schools have dyslexia, however, the U.S. Dept of Health and Human Services estimate that that number may be as high as 20%.
• The National Institute for Literacy says that 30-50% of the population has undiagnosed learning disabilities.
• Less than 14% of teachers are confident that they can recognise a dyslexic child.
• Less than 9% felt confident they could teach one.
• Four out of five teachers have asked for extra training in teaching dyslexic children
• One in five children left primary school this year without a basic grasp of reading, writing or math.
• 27% of children with learning disabilities drop out of high school
• 50% of Ohio's prisoners are dyslexic
• 44% of parents who noticed their child exhibiting signs of difficulty with learning waited a year or more before acknowledging their child might have a serious problem
• 2.9 million school age children in the US are classified as having a learning disability but that number, however, this is just the tip of the iceberg

Please sign my petition calling for earlier identification and training for all teachers in the state of Ohio. Together our signatures will speak for the millions of dyslexic learners throughout Ohio. Thank you for speaking up and "seeing the ability" in each and every person.