🔤 Dyslexia in School: What It Is and What Services Can HelpÂ
By: Frances Shefter, Esq.Â
Dyslexia affects how the brain processes written language. Children with dyslexia may mix up letters, struggle to sound out words, or read much more slowly than their peers. Some may also have trouble spelling or putting their thoughts into writing.Â
It’s important to know: Dyslexia is not a sign of laziness or low intelligence. In fact, many children with dyslexia are creative and bright—but need a different way of learning to succeed.  Dyslexia is a lifelong condition, but the earlier it’s identified and supported, the better the outcomes.Â
Some children are diagnosed with dyslexia early. Others may struggle for years without a clear answer. Here are common school-related signs:Â
Difficulty learning letters and sounds in kindergarten or first gradeÂ
Reading slowly or avoiding reading out loudÂ
Guessing words instead of sounding them outÂ
Poor spelling and writing compared to spoken vocabularyÂ
Frustration with reading homework or timed testsÂ
Falling behind in reading comprehensionÂ
If your child has any of these signs, it’s important to request a reading evaluation through the school.Â
Under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) or Section 504, children with dyslexia are entitled to support. Here are common services that can help:Â
📚 1. Structured Literacy ProgramsÂ
These are evidence-based reading programs that follow a specific sequence and teach phonics, decoding, and spelling directly. Examples include:Â
- Orton-GillinghamÂ
- Wilson Reading SystemÂ
- Barton ReadingÂ
- SPIREÂ
These programs work best when taught in small groups or 1-on-1, several times a week.Â
🗂️ 2. IEP or 504 PlanÂ
An Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan lays out the specific accommodations and services a child with dyslexia needs. This might include:Â
- Extra time on testsÂ
- Audiobooks or read-aloud supportÂ
- Reduced homework loadÂ
- Modified assignmentsÂ
- Note-taking assistanceÂ
An IEP includes goals and progress tracking, while a 504 is more focused on access.Â
🧑‍🏫 3. Reading Intervention and Specialized InstructionÂ
Certified reading specialists or special education teachers can work directly with students to build reading skills. This support may happen in small groups or in a resource room.Â
🖥️ 4. Assistive TechnologyÂ
Technology can help level the playing field. Tools include:Â
- Text-to-speech softwareÂ
- Speech-to-text toolsÂ
- Audiobook platforms (like Bookshare or Learning Ally)Â
- Word prediction tools for writingÂ
These help students work around reading and writing struggles while still learning the content.Â
Sometimes schools are slow to act—or may not believe a child qualifies for services. That’s where we come in. At Shefter Law, we help families:Â
- Request evaluations or independent educational evaluations (IEEs)Â
- Review all documents for evidence to support eligibility for an IEP or 504 PlanÂ
- Push for the right type of instruction (structured literacy, not just “more reading”)Â
- Secure appropriate IEP or 504 PlansÂ
- Monitor school compliance with servicesÂ
- Advocate at IEP meetings or due process hearings if neededÂ
If your child has dyslexia and the school says they’re “not behind enough,” don’t give up. Early support is key—and your child has a legal right to get help.Â
Dyslexia may make learning to read harder, but with the right supports, it doesn’t have to hold a child back. Schools are required by law to meet the needs of children with learning disabilities—including dyslexia. If that’s not happening, Shefter Law, PA is here to help. We’ll stand by your side to make sure your child gets the services they need to learn, grow, and succeed.Â
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