David Eliot est candidat au doctorat en criminologie au Centre de droit, technologie et société de l'Université d'Ottawa et boursier de la Fondation Pierre Elliott Trudeau. Ses recherches lui ont valu de nombreux prix académiques, et en dehors du milieu universitaire, il s'investit dans les arts et l'activisme. Il a été diagnostiqué avec une dysgraphie de lecture et d'écriture en 3e année. David attribue son succès aux opportunités qu'il a eues, des opportunités qui sont souvent inaccessibles à la majorité des personnes ayant une dyslexie. 

Andrew Armstrong est né en Angleterre et a immigré à Montréal à l'âge de six ans, en 1960. Bien qu’il a une dyslexie, sa détermination et sa résilience lui ont permis de mener une carrière très fructueuse au sein de la Garde côtière canadienne. À la retraite, Andrew continue de mener une vie active en tant que secouriste bénévole, pompier de garde, instructeur de yoga, agent de contrôle du dopage au Centre canadien pour l'éthique dans le sport et officiel technique international à Triathlon Canada.

Learning to read is a precious gift, but for some kids, dyslexia keeps that gift just out of reach. Growing up without it can lead to low self-esteem, behavioral challenges, and a lifetime of frustration. Yet, with the right support, kids once written off have transformed their lives. What began as struggles became incredible success stories. Launching on October 1, 2024, Mark It Read: Breaking the Silence podcast series shares these inspiring journeys of transformation.

Welcome to the first episode of the Dyslexia Canada Educational Excellence Awards podcast series featuring an engaging conversation with its executive Director, Alicia Smith. In this episode, Alicia extends her heartfelt congratulations to the deserving winners while providing fascinating insights into the inception and significance of these awards. Whether you're passionate about education, advocacy, or simply intrigued by the remarkable achievements celebrated by Dyslexia Canada, this podcast promises to inform and inspire.

In this series, we profile the recipients of the Dyslexia Canada Educational Excellence Awards. Dr. Linda Siegel, recipient of Lifetime Achievement Awards, is an Emeritus Professor in the Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology and Special Education at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver. Dr. Siegel has emerged as a prominent figure in addressing dyslexia and other learning disabilities, with a vast body of research and over 200 publications to her name. What sets her apart is her unwavering advocacy and readiness to question educational bureaucracies and governments, all in the pursuit of a brighter future for children.

In this episode, we speak with Joanna Rowe, an educational consultant, is leading the charge with the Read and Talk Professional Learning Community within Kativik Ilisarniliriniq, the school board of Nunavik, Quebec. Where students with dyslexia confront hurdles stemming from limited access to specialized resources, multilingual environments, educational disparities, stigma, and a lack of awareness. Having resided and worked in Nunavik since 2020, Joanna Rowe perceives her contribution as a part of the Truth and Reconciliation process. “If you can read, you're much more resilient against trauma, which is something many of our students are affected by—and if you're fluent in reading, the world is yours,” she emphasizes.

In the realm of education, few pursuits are as noble and impactful as striving for equity. Melanie Baerg, a school psychologist, BC certified teacher, and instructor at both the University of Northern BC and Vancouver Island University, embodies this ethos wholeheartedly. Throughout her career, she has championed the cause of equitable education and effective instruction for all learners, particularly those grappling with dyslexia.

Andrea Van Hoof, a dedicated teacher at Bertha Kennedy Catholic School in St. Albert, Alberta, has been instrumental in a transformative process aimed at supporting both students and colleagues. Her commitment to inclusive education has earned her the 2024 Dyslexia Canada Educational Excellence Award.

Charles MacTavish, an academic support teacher at Geary Elementary Community School in Geary, New Brunswick, has been a driving force in the school's transformative journey, offering unwavering support to both students and colleagues. His steadfast dedication to inclusive education has earned him the 2024 Dyslexia Canada Educational Excellence Award.

The Literacy team of the Evergreen School Division has been honoured with one of the 2024 Dyslexia Canada Educational Excellence Awards. Recognized as a model for other school divisions and educators across Manitoba and Canada, the team's dedication to raising awareness through professional development, supporting teachers in implementing evidence-based practices, and providing impactful interventions has set a commendable standard.