Dyslexia
Dyslexia Handbook Update
The Texas Dyslexia Handbook is developed and adopted into administrative rule by the Texas State Board of Education (SBOE). The SBOE requires that each district and open-enrollment charter school implement the SBOE’s strategies for screening, individualized evaluation, and techniques for treating dyslexia and related disorders through its approved “Dyslexia Handbook: Procedures Concerning Dyslexia and Related Disorders” [19 Texas Administrative Code 74.28]
In effect as of June 30, 2024. At the April 12, 2024 State Board of Education (SBOE) meeting, the SBOE approved for second reading and final adoption changes to 19 Texas Administrative Code (TAC) 74.28. Included as a figure in 19 TAC 74.28 is the SBOE’s Dyslexia Handbook. The rule was filed in the Texas Register on June 1, which makes the rule and handbook effective on June 30, 2024.
- The Dyslexia Handbook - Updated on August 9, 2024
- Manual Sobre Dislexia (The Dyslexia Handbook - Spanish)
What is Dyslexia?
“Dyslexia is a specific learning disability characterized by difficulties in word reading and/or spelling that involve accuracy, speed, or both and vary depending on the orthography. These difficulties occur along a continuum of severity and persist even with instruction that is effective for the individual’s peers. The causes of dyslexia are complex and involve combinations of genetic, neurobiological, and environmental influences that interact throughout development. Underlying difficulties with phonological and morphological processing are common but not universal, and early oral language weaknesses often foreshadow literacy challenges. Secondary consequences include reading comprehension problems and reduced reading and writing experience that can impede growth in language, knowledge, written expression, and overall academic achievement. Psychological well-being and employment opportunities also may be affected. Although identification and targeted instruction are important at any age, language and literacy support before and during the early years of education is particularly effective.”
Adopted by International Dyslexia Association 2025
Student Identification
All students in grades Kindergarten and 1st Grade go through a screening process to identify students who may be at risk for dyslexia (House Bill 1886). Additionally, students beyond first grade may be screened or tested as appropriate. If a student is suspected of having dyslexia and/or a related disorder, the campus will seek parental consent for a Full Individual Initial Evaluation (FIIE) under IDEA.
Related Links: MTSS and Child Find
Updates in Special Education-Texas Education Agency
Updates in Special Education (Spanish)-Texas Education Agency
Services Provided if Identified
If a student is identified with dyslexia, services are discussed and documented through an Admission, Review, Dismissal (ARD) meeting. The committee will review the student's data and collaborate on the resources and services that best meet the student's needs.
The Rockwall ISD Dyslexia Program currently utilizes a variety of curriculum resources, such as: Scottish Rite Take Flight and Reading by Design
Dyslexia Education
The Rockwall ISD Dyslexia Program strives to spotlight and educate others on dyslexia. Some of the exciting opportunities that have been provided are:
- Campus Staff Dyslexia Simulations
- Community/Parent Dyslexia Simulations
- Dyslexia Family Night
- Parent Information Nights
- Yearly staff development (district-wide) on the identification of dyslexia and ways to support students with dyslexia in the classroom
Dyslexia Resources for Families
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Talking Books Brochure/Information
Below you will find a link to the Region 10 Dyslexia Connects Newsletter for Parents. Each newsletter contains wonderful resources for families.
Region 10 Dyslexia Parent Smore Link