October is Dyslexia Awareness Month
Students with dyslexia thrive in Arlington ISD.
That’s the goal behind the district’s commitment to providing students with the instruction, resources, and support they need to succeed.
“In Arlington ISD, supporting students with dyslexia is not simply an area of interest – it is a commitment,” said Arlington ISD dyslexia coordinator Eboni Nix. “For us, commitment means more than having good intentions. It means being intentional about the work, staying focused on student growth, and doing what it takes to help every student reach their potential.”
October is Dyslexia Awareness Month, a time to highlight the potential and achievements of students with dyslexia and promote greater understanding of how to support their success.
“Students with dyslexia are an essential part of all students, and they deserve learning experiences that recognize their strengths, address their individual needs, and provide the instruction and support necessary for them to thrive,” Nix said. “We want every student with dyslexia to leave our classrooms not only as a stronger reader, but also with greater confidence in their abilities and a belief in what they can accomplish.”
Throughout the month, Arlington ISD’s dyslexia team has promoted awareness at schools through announcements, dyslexia-themed bulletin boards and displays, wearing red in support of dyslexia, and sharing resources with students, staff, and families.
“Recognizing Dyslexia Awareness Month helps build understanding, reduce misconceptions, and ensure students with dyslexia feel seen, valued, and supported,” said Felicia Scruggs, Arlington ISD dyslexia instructional specialist.
Building understanding and confidence
One of the most important messages educators want students, families, and staff to understand is that dyslexia is not an indicator of a student’s abilities.
“I wish more people understood that dyslexia is not a reflection of intelligence or effort,” Scruggs said. “Students with dyslexia are often capable, creative, and talented thinkers. They simply process written language differently.”
With appropriate instruction and support, students with dyslexia can develop strong reading skills and the confidence they need to succeed.
“Our commitment is reflected in the work of our educators, the use of evidence-based practices, and our focus on providing students with the tools they need to become successful, confident readers,” Nix said.
But the work goes beyond teaching reading skills.
“Educators celebrate students’ growth, build confidence, teach self-advocacy skills, and help students recognize that dyslexia is only one part of who they are,” Scruggs said. “Through targeted instruction, encouragement, and ongoing progress monitoring, educators help students develop both the skills and confidence needed for meaningful, measurable success.”
Working together to help students thrive
Arlington ISD works to create an environment where students with dyslexia feel understood, valued, and empowered to succeed. By helping families and educators better understand dyslexia, the district can strengthen the partnership between home and school and reinforce the importance of early identification and evidence-based instruction.
For Scruggs, the message is one that extends well beyond October.
“Dyslexia does not define a student’s potential,” she said. “When schools and families work together to provide support, encouragement, and effective instruction, students with dyslexia can thrive. Awareness leads to understanding, and understanding helps create opportunities for every student to succeed.”