Resources

Understanding the road ahead

A little clarity goes a long way. Here’s a plain-language starting point on dyslexia, dyscalculia, and the evaluation process—plus trusted places to learn more.

What Are Learning Differences?

A different way of processing — not a lack of ability

A learning difference is a difference in how the brain takes in, processes, and expresses information — in reading, math, writing, or attention. It has nothing to do with how smart, capable, or hardworking a child is. With the right support, children with learning differences don’t just cope — they thrive.

1 in 5

people show some signs of dyslexia — the most common learning difference.International Dyslexia Association

~85%

of students with a learning disability have their primary difficulty in reading and language.International Dyslexia Association

5–8%

of school-age children have dyscalculia — about as common as dyslexia, but far less recognized.Learning Disabilities Association

Learning differences have nothing to do with intelligence. With early, structured support, children can become confident readers and mathematicians — and even grow to love learning.

What is dyslexia?

Dyslexia is a language-based learning difference that affects reading—especially accurate, fluent word recognition and spelling. It has nothing to do with intelligence or effort. With the right structured, multisensory instruction, students with dyslexia can and do become confident readers.

What is dyscalculia?

Dyscalculia is a learning difference that affects number sense and math reasoning—things like understanding quantity, recalling facts, and working through computation. Explicit, multisensory math instruction helps students build a solid foundation and real confidence.

The Evaluation & SBLC Process

Wondering what happens after a screening flags a concern? Here’s the simple version:

  • Screening — Early indicators are identified, often through Louisiana’s required kindergarten dyslexia screening.
  • Comprehensive evaluation — A deeper look at a student’s learning profile, aligned to Louisiana’s Core Assessment components.
  • SBLC review — The School Building Level Committee reviews the data and determines next steps and supports.
  • Intervention — Targeted, evidence-based instruction begins—and progress is monitored over time.

We can support families and schools at every step—from evaluation through intervention. See our services →

Louisiana Resources

For families & educators in our state

Louisiana Department of Education — Dyslexia & Literacy State guidance, dyslexia resources, and the Louisiana literacy framework. LA GATOR Scholarship Program Louisiana’s Education Savings Account program — eligibility, awards, and applications. Odyssey Support Center Manage your LA GATOR account, approved expenses, and vendor payments.
National Resources

Trusted, evidence-based information

International Dyslexia Association (IDA) Fact sheets, research, and family-friendly guides on dyslexia. Reading Rockets Practical strategies for teaching reading and helping struggling readers at home. Understood.org Approachable support for learning and thinking differences, written for parents. Families Helping Families Louisiana parent support and advocacy for children with disabilities.

Have a favorite local resource you’d like added here? Let us know and we’ll include it.

You don’t have to figure it out alone

Have questions about your child or your classroom? We’re here to help you take the next step.

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