What is Dyslexia?

“Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that is neurobiological in origin. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities. These difficulties typically result from a deficit in the phonological component of language that is often unexpected in relation to other cognitive abilities and the provision of effective classroom instruction. Secondary consequences may include problems in reading comprehension and reduced reading experience that can impede growth of vocabulary and background knowledge.”

Mississippi Department of Education’s definition adopted from the International Dyslexia Association’s definition

Dyslexia is not...

• Outgrown
• Seeing letters backward
• Very rare
• Diagnosed with a single test
• A medical problem, which only a doctor can diagnose
• Only identified in 3rd grade at the earliest
• A general, catch-all term
• A recently discovered diagnosis
• An excuse for a student unable to learn phonics
• Caused by poor teaching methods
• Due to laziness
• Caused by brain damage
• A SPED issue

Adopted from the 2010 Dyslexia Handbook, Mississippi Department of Education

Characteristics of Dyslexia 

MCS Dyslexia Screening Process

MCS Dyslexia Supports and Services

Signs of Dyslexia

Helpful Links