2 Dyslexia services expanding
in GISD
For more than 100 years, Garland ISD has focused on
providing innovative programs and opportunities to
prepare all learners for success. Keeping with tradition,
the district is leading the way by expanding its dyslexia
services for students and families. From hiring dozens
of certified therapists to introducing new events, GISD
is setting the framework for an esteemed and dynamic
dyslexia program.
“We are continuously building a program that is all
encompassing to ensure each student with dyslexia
is identified and served in order to afford them an
opportunity to be academically, socially and emotionally
successful in the classroom and beyond,” said Assistant
Director of Dyslexia Marcy Eisinger.
“
These new programs and
procedures will support our goal for
continuous improvement in literacy
that translates into success with the
core curriculum and life outside of the
classroom.
”
GISD offers several research-based programs such as
Take Flight and Esperanza, which provide multisensory
instruction and intervention using a differentiated
approach. Incorporating a variety of instructional
strategies is essential to the program.
“We understand every student is unique,” Eisinger
stated. “We are taking every measure to ensure that we
meet the individual needs of students at all grade levels.”
A strong focus on early literacy programs and
secondary support was established to address all ages.
Administering a kindergarten through first-grade
universal screener helps with early identification and
connected
intervention, while accommodations and self-advocacy
support secondary students. In addition, the district
welcomed nearly 40 teachers who are or will soon
become Certified Academic Language Therapists. These
experts have the highest level of training and must pass a
national exam to receive their certification.
“Not only do they understand how to provide a
curriculum, they understand the needs our students
have and the obstacles they face. They are able to
give all students what they need,” Eisinger said. “They
will also help classroom teachers with knowledge of
accommodations, the use of technology and resources
that will serve students with dyslexia.”
GISD’s enhanced services also reinforce the creation of
powerful family-district partnerships through a parent
resource group and special ongoing public events.
“We created a bilingual simulation to further
encourage involvement and understanding within our
community,” Eisinger expressed. “These new programs
and procedures will support our goal for continuous
improvement in literacy that translates into success with
the core curriculum and life outside of the classroom.”
As with all other GISD initiatives, preparing students for
a successful future is the ultimate objective.
“Our goal is to rewrite the story for individuals who
once were hidden in their disability and are now thriving
in their abilities. We strive to leave a legacy and set a
precedence for other districts to emulate the process
and procedures that protect, encourage and develop
the academic independence and emotional security for
students with dyslexia.”
Learn more on Twitter @GISD_Dyslexia.