Dyslexia
GISD is committed in providing students with dyslexia every opportunity to succeed. We recognize that every child is unique and the impact of dyslexia can vary from person to person. We provide students with the appropriate intervention and supports, as well as recognizing the individual need of the student to ensure they are afforded the educational opportunities they deserve.
In addition, we promote self-advocacy, provide scientifically proven, evidence based intervention and have a Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT) or therapist-in-training on every campus k-12. We strive to provide every opportunity that will prepare our students for future success.
The International Dyslexia Association defines dyslexia as a "specific learning disability that is neurobiological in origin. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities. These difficulties typically result from a deficit in the phonological component of language that is often unexpected in relation to other cognitive abilities and the provision of effective classroom instruction. Secondary consequences may include problems in reading comprehension and reduced reading experience that can impede growth of vocabulary and background knowledge."
A Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT) has a professional credential with the expertise to provide services to students who have difficulty with written-language disorders, including dyslexia. In order for our teachers to become CALTs, they had to receive training for two years, complete 700 practicum hours and pass the the National Alliance Exam for Accreditation and Certification of Dyslexia Specialists.
Our newsletter
The GISD Dyslexia Informer is our monthly newsletter. In it, we share the latest news, great resources, upcoming events and more.
Resources
Dyslexia contacts
See the tables below to find the dyslexia teacher/therapist for your campus.
High school
| School | Teacher/Therapist |
|---|---|
| Garland HS | Soraya Reyes |
| Lakeview Centennial HS | Allison Victoria |
| Naaman Forest HS | Debbie Gilstrap |
| North Garland HS | Joelle Fox |
| Rowlett HS | Kristina Jones |
| Sachse HS | Anne Ruff |
| South Garland HS | Stefani Stewart |
Middle school
| School | Teacher/Therapist |
|---|---|
| Austin | Lynette Munoz |
| Brandenburg | Rene Bennett |
| Bussey | Deborah Pittman |
| Coyle | Dahlia Zarbo-Offield |
| Houston | Sylvia Ruiz |
| Hudson | Suzy Penner Ruthie Cole |
| Jackson | Carla McPike |
| Lyles | Melody Savage |
| O'Banion | Christine Elms Margarita Bennett |
| Schrade | Roxie Montlavan |
| Sellers | Mary McDonald |
| Webb | Dianna Walker |