To address persistent literacy challenges, Ohio passed the Dyslexia Law to ensure public schools implement the Science of Reading, a body of research that informs evidence-based literacy practices. Districts now use the Ohio’s Dyslexia Guidebook to guide literacy improvement.
Dr. Rebecca Tolson, director of the Center for Structured Literacy at the University of Akron, explains, “the general purpose of the dyslexia law is prevention of reading failure through early screening, instruction, and intervention services. To accomplish that, educator professional development and certification is essential.”
While implementation varies, parents can expect schools to align with Ohio’s Dyslexia Guidebook, which includes requirements surrounding Screening and Progress Monitoring Data, Evidence-Based Instruction and Intervention, Communication with Parents and Educator Professional Development.
“The most promising part is that districts are legally responsible for following the guidebook… [detailing] what schools are supposed to do and how they’re supposed to do it,” adds Dr. Stephanie Stollar, founder of the Reading Science Academy and part-time assistant professor at Mount St. Joseph’s Reading Science Program.
How Can Parents Advocate for Their Child?
Challenges are natural in new processes. Kerry Agins, an attorney dedicated to students with disabilities, suggests that parents learn about the Science of Reading to advocate effectively.
“The earlier we intervene and secure that advocacy, the more likely we are to fully remediate the issue… The earlier parents can find that support and push for appropriate interventions, the better for the kid,” she says.
Here are a few ways parents can advocate for their child to get support:
-Seek resources about dyslexia, the Science of Reading, and Ohio’s Dyslexia Guidebook
-Agins recommends asking your child’s team questions to understand their needs, their instruction, and their progress:
What literacy programs are you using?
Which reading areas are those programs addressing?
What is my child’s progress?
What progress should I expect for my child’s grade level?
How will the interventions intensify if needed?
-Consider working with an advocate or attorney if your child isn’t progressing and you’re having difficulty navigating the system.
-Get Involved in the Process
Also, active involvement in your child’s literacy journey is essential. Here are some ideas to help:
-Familiarize yourself with Ohio’s Dyslexia Guidebook
-Collaborate with your school for information and resources
-Connect with local parent groups like Organized Parent Education Networks (OPEN)
-Learn about the Science of Reading and structured literacy from respected sources like the International Dyslexia Association (dyslexiaida.org) and The Reading League (thereadingleague.org)
-Remember to trust that you know your child best. Stollar says, “If something doesn’t feel right to you as a parent, you should not be quiet about that. You don’t have to make a big fuss, but you should not let that go without it getting resolved.”
About the Author
Dr. Jennifer Murphy is an Independent School Psychologist and the Director of Assessment at her private practice, Achievement Advantage Assessment & Services. She specializes in psychoeducational assessments, focusing on learning differences and executive functioning. Dr. Murphy is an active member of the Northern Ohio Branch of the International Dyslexia Association (NOBIDA).