Supporting Dyslexic Students
By Morgan Kimball
I recently conducted a dyslexia screening that broke my heart. It’s devastating to witness children struggling their way through school, and it’s even more heartbreaking to hear them call themselves “stupid.” During this screening, the frustration and anger on the child’s face were unmistakable. That face screamed, “I don’t want to be here,” and “You are making me feel stupid.” It’s a pain I know all too well, having called myself “stupid” many times in school.
I had an IEP, which made me feel even more “stupid.” The teachers I had were wonderful; they were doing their job. But now that I’m out of school and working for a nonprofit that helps kids with reading and spelling, I see the broader picture. The challenge isn’t with the teachers, but with a system that often doesn’t provide the flexibility to meet every child’s unique needs.
Why can’t schools accommodate more? Why can’t they see that some kids are hurting more than others? These are questions we hear often. Dyslexia has nothing to do with intellectual ability! These kids are smart and amazing in so many ways. But, their struggles stand out to them because they are not getting the direct, explicit, individualized help they need.
The current education system is designed to serve a broad spectrum of students, but this one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work for everyone. Children with learning differences like dyslexia often need tailored support to thrive. It’s not about pointing fingers at schools or teachers; it’s about recognizing the need for a more inclusive and adaptive educational framework.
In my work, I see first-hand the potential in these kids. They are not “stupid” or “dumb,’ and they aren’t “lazy” either. They have unique talents and perspectives that the world desperately needs. Yet, the current system’s flexibility can stifle their potential and crush their spirits. We must advocate for more inclusive and flexible educational approaches that recognize the diverse ways in which children learn.
Every child deserves to feel valued and capable. It’s time for a change. Let’s work towards an educational system where no child feels “stupid” for not fitting into a standardized mold. I believe in the potential for change. Dyslexia is not a barrier to success; it’s a difference that needs understanding and accommodation. Some of the greatest minds in history have dyslexia. Let’s create a world where all children can thrive and show their brilliance in their unique ways.