Supporting Students with Dyslexia and Other Reading Challenges
At PSD, we are committed to providing an inclusive and supportive learning environment where students with dyslexia and other reading challenges can thrive academically. Through our comprehensive, evidence-based literacy programs and multi-tiered system of support (MTSS), we focus on building foundational reading skills with targeted interventions. Our approach emphasizes structured literacy, phonemic awareness, systematic phonics, vocabulary development, reading fluency, and comprehension strategies to address the unique needs of each learner.
We believe every student has the potential to succeed, and by utilizing individualized instruction, multi-sensory techniques, and assistive technology, we empower students with dyslexia and other reading challenges to overcome challenges and build confidence in their reading and writing abilities. Through ongoing assessment and tailored interventions, we ensure that each student's progress is continuously monitored, allowing for the best path forward to academic success. Our goal is to help every student develop the skills necessary for lifelong learning and achievement.
What is Dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a learning disorder that makes it difficult to accurately and fluently decode and spell words, and to break down words into sounds (phonological/phonemic awareness). These difficulties usually come from problems with the way the brain processes sounds in language and does not reflect a person’s intelligence or cognitive ability. As a result, people with dyslexia might struggle with understanding what they read, which can lead to a smaller vocabulary and reduced reading experience.
Dyslexia varies in degrees of severity and is not indicative of low intelligence or a lack of motivation. With appropriate educational strategies and interventions, individuals with dyslexia can achieve academic success.
How Are Students Assessed?
All PSD students are screened for reading skills three times a year from kindergarten through third grade. Students with reading deficiencies receive targeted instruction and progress is regularly monitored using DIBELS 8, a state-approved screening tool. This progress is documented in their READ Plans. Students needing additional support after third grade continue to receive targeted instruction and have an ongoing READ Plan.
For more information about this, visit the DIBELS 8 website.
- Identifying Dyslexia: Evaluation for Special Education Support
- 2024-25 Professional Learning
- 2025-26 Professional Learning
- 2026-27 Professional Learning
Identifying Dyslexia: Evaluation for Special Education Support
2024-25 Professional Learning
2025-26 Professional Learning
2026-27 Professional Learning
How are PSD Educators Prepared
PSD K-3 teachers and Reading Interventionists are knowledgeable about teaching structured literacy and have completed evidence-based training in teaching reading as required by the Colorado READ Act. All reading interventionists completed teacher training in evidence-based practices.
Dyslexia Professional Learning 3-Year Plan
The purpose of professional learning about dyslexia with PSD staff includes:
- Foster a deep understanding of dyslexia, including its neurological basis, characteristics, and impact on learning and social-emotional health
- Equip educators with the knowledge, skills, and strategies necessary to effectively identify, support, accommodate, and teach students with dyslexia within all educational settings
- Learn evidence-based instructional methods and interventions rooted in the Science of Reading
- Enable educators to create inclusive and supportive classroom environments
Ultimately, the goal is to empower PSD educators to ensure that all students, regardless of their reading challenges, have the opportunity to achieve their full academic potential.
Each professional learning session is differentiated and is dependent upon staff roles and responsibilities.