Reading difficulty has an outsized effect on a student's ability to be successful in school and life. In the past few years, more and more states are passing legislation around dyslexia, requiring schools and teachers to have the knowledge and to screen students early.

Dyslexia is “a brain-based learning disability that specifically impairs a person’s reading ability.” Fortunately, research suggests that early identification and intervention for dyslexia prevents further difficulty for the student.

In today’s episode, I sat down with Kristen Beesaw, Assistant Director of Interventions and 504 for Bryan Independent School District. We talked how about misconceptions about dyslexia and how a Multi-Tiered System of Supports can help meet students that are at risk for dyslexia. Kristen was kind enough to share how Bryan is striving to intervene early and implement best practices to support students at risk for dyslexia.

Kristen Beesaw has been in education for 28 years, all with the Bryan Independent School District. She has served as a high school Language Arts teacher for 13 years, then Technology Specialist, Secondary Language Arts Coordinator, and then as Dyslexia Coordinator. Currently, she is the Assistant Director of Interventions & §504, where she oversees MTSS/RtI, Dyslexia, Secondary Reading interventions, the district’s summer programming, and §504.

For more information about dyslexia, check out our recent webinar from with Dr. Eva Dundas. https://www.branchingminds.com/webinars/identifying-and-supporting-dyslexia-within-mtss

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