Photo by Jason Leung on Unsplash
Did you know that dyslexia is the most common learning disability affecting students nationwide? Studies indicate that half of the school population who qualify for special education are classified as having a learning disability. And within this category, about 85 percent are reported to have dyslexia, a language-based learning disability.
Advocates from the TN Branch of the International Dyslexia Association and the Erika Center at Bodine School partnered to begin the West TN chapter of Decoding Dyslexia. The mission of this parent-led network is threefold – raise awareness, empower families, and influence policy makers.
Memphis Parent reached out to Stephanie Hathcock, Decoding Dyslexia TN - West area director to learn more.
Memphis Parent: What is the primary reason for starting the West TN chapter of Decoding Dyslexia?
Stephanie Hathcock: We felt that there were woefully few opportunities for parents of dyslexic children in the Memphis and Shelby County area to meet with each other and form a community. This grass-roots community is important because, without it, parents can often feel isolated and helpless when trying to navigate through their child's diagnosis, IEP/504 plans, and remediation.
MP: Who is your target community and why?
SH: Our target community is comprised of parents, educators, and anyone with a desire to help the dyslexic community. Beyond that, we hope to build relationships and strengthen existing bonds with school board members, community leaders, and legislators. Dyslexia affects up to 20 percent of the population. Every classroom in every school in the United States contains at least one dyslexic student.
MP: How would you strengthen the power of grassroots engagement?
SH: Decoding Dyslexia Tennessee is excited and eager to raise dyslexia awareness. We have several events planned for the coming school year. October is Dyslexia Awareness Month and we will be hosting speakers and a screening of The Big Picture. These events will be co-hosted by Decoding Dyslexia Tennessee, International Dyslexia Association of Tennessee, and the Erika Center at Bodine School and will be open to the public.
MP: What efforts are being taken to reach out to the public schools?
SH: In regards to reaching out to public schools, this is a grassroots effort and we need help from the community. We are always looking for ways to build bonds with educators and administrators. If you have contacts with any teachers, administrators, and PTOs, please email that information to westtndd@gmail.com and we will reach out to make those connections.
MP: Where can parents/teachers go to find resources?
SH: The Decoding Dyslexia TN Facebook Chat Group is very active and serves as a great resource to anyone looking for information and answers. Additionally, check out the following websites: decodingdyslexiatn.org, decodingdyslexia.org, dyslexiaida.org, understood.org The Bodine School in Germantown is another source offering guidance.