Dyslexia Resources and Support

Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that primarily impacts reading and related language-processing skills. Students with dyslexia may encounter challenges in reading fluency, decoding, comprehension, and spelling, despite possessing the ability to learn. It’s important to note that dyslexia is not connected to intelligence, but rather to how the brain processes written language.

As of July 1, 2017, the Virginia Department of Education mandates that all individuals seeking initial licensure or renewing a teaching license must complete awareness training on the indicators of dyslexia, evidence-based interventions, and accommodations.

In compliance with Code of Virginia § 22.1-253.13:2(G), King William County Public Schools is required to designate an employee to serve as the division’s Dyslexia Advisor. To meet this requirement, King William County Public Schools has established a Dyslexia Team. Members of this team have undergone specialized training in identifying dyslexia and related disorders, as well as the appropriate interventions, accommodations, and teaching strategies.

The Dyslexia Team members are knowledgeable about:

  • The definition of dyslexia and its characteristics across different ages and grade levels.

  • Techniques to support students across the dyslexia spectrum.

  • The foundations of effective reading instruction, including multisensory, explicit, systematic, and structured approaches.

  • Interventions, accommodations, and assistive technologies that can support students with dyslexia.

While the Dyslexia Team does not make decisions, they provide valuable recommendations regarding instructional strategies and accommodations to teachers, IEP teams, and 504 teams.

If you have questions regarding dyslexia, please contact:

  • Brooke Davis, Elementary Director of Curriculum and Instruction

  • Dr. Stephanie Bassett, Director of Curriculum and Instruction

  • Shellie Waldron, Director of Special Education

A team member will respond to your inquiry promptly.