If your child has been diagnosed with dyslexia, dysgraphia, or another learning disability, you've probably wondered: will the school see it the same way? The answer depends more on your zip code than it should.

Federal special ed law changed in 2004, opening the door to new — and better — ways of identifying students with Specific Learning Disabilities. But not every state, district, or school psychologist is using the same approach. That means some kids are getting identified and supported, while others with the exact same profile are falling through the cracks.

In this post I break down the three methods schools can use, why the old "discrepancy model" was doing kids a disservice, what's changing in Washington state, and — most importantly — what YOU can do when you suspect your child might have a learning disability.

Some learning disabilities are widely recognized. Others, like Nonverbal Learning Disability (NVLD), are far less understood. Even so, they can have a significant impact on a child’s school experience. This is the story of how thoughtful collaboration and intentional planning, guided by a special education advocate, helped an elementary school student with NVLD finally receive the support she needed to thrive.

Each year, I attend the Pacific Northwest Institute on Special Education and the Law to stay current on legal updates that impact students and families. This year’s sessions covered everything from dyslexia eligibility to Child Find responsibilities—and offered important reminders about how schools should respond when a child needs support.

Basics on special education and what parents can expect from school. Feel free to grab the pdf

Families are doing their best. They are navigating the medical system - pediatricians, developmental pediatricians, neuropsychologists, occupational therapists, speech/language therapists, play therapists, and on and on. After all of this, it’s been figured out. Your child is newly diagnosed. Now what? In addition to working the medical system, parents are also expected to work the school system. 

There are many conversations happening right now about the upcoming school year… including concerns about how special education students have fared during COVID.

Portland Public Schools recently announced a fully online option for K-12 students for the 2021-22 school year.