Western REgion PTA

Literacy Equity for All:

Implementation of Structured Literacy for Dyslexic Students

Western Region PTA Dyslexia Resolution

Statement of Concern

The Western Region PTA stands united in addressing a critical concern: the alarmingly low literacy proficiency rates for students. 83% of students with disabilities in Grades 3 to 8 scored below or well below proficiency on the 2023 NYS ELA assessment. 80% of students with learning disabilities have dyslexia. Because dyslexia affects 1 in 5 students, we call for immediate action to dismantle systemic inequities in our education system. Students with dyslexia face barriers that limit their access to the resources necessary for success in reading and literacy.

What is Dyslexia?

“Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that is neurobiological in origin. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities. These difficulties typically result from a deficit in the phonological component of language that is often unexpected in relation to other cognitive abilities and the provision of effective classroom instruction. Secondary consequences may include problems in reading comprehension and reduced reading experience that can impede growth of vocabulary and background knowledge.”

Adopted by the IDA Board of Directors, Nov. 12, 2002 - IDA is currently working to update their definition of dyslexia.

Evaluating for Dyslexia in the Schools

"Both federal and state law allows NYS certified school psychologists to diagnose dyslexia. NYS Education Law Article 153 §7605 allows school psychologists to diagnose for the purposes of educational planning, such as CSE classification and Section 504 services and accommodations. Additionally, at the federal level, the law and guidance memos from the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS, 2015) allows and encourages NYS school psychologists to identify dyslexia, share it with stakeholders (teachers, parents), write it in IEPs and other eligibility documents."

New York Association for School Psychologists, February 2025, p.2.

WE ADVOCATE FOR 3 CORE PRINCIPLES

General Education Inclusion: Students with dyslexia must be recognized as general education students first. With appropriate support, they can thrive in inclusive classrooms, which feature structured and evidence-based reading instruction delivered by trained educators.
Continuum of Support: Recognizing that dyslexia exists on a continuum, we must develop support systems that are tailored to the diverse needs of all learners.
Literacy Equity: Every student deserves equitable access to literacy resources, ensuring that no child is disadvantaged by their background.

☑️ CALL TO ACTION

The Western Region PTA’s Resolution was accepted by the Western Region PTA, was submitted to the New York State PTA Resolution Committee, was approved and has advanced through the resolution process. This resolution will be put forward for voting during the NYSPTA’s 129th Annual Convention in November. Please show your support and help us advocate.