In an effort to curb the impact of dyslexia on students, Rep. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) introduced a measure on Friday that urges schools and educational agencies to acknowledge the issue and take steps to address it.
“Dyslexia affects millions of Americans, including many students,” Cassidy said. “We know that many with dyslexia are among our brightest and most successful. If dyslexia is identified in elementary school and the appropriate resources are given to these children, America can produce more teachers, more scientists and more entrepreneurs. This resolution pushes schools and educational agencies to address this challenge and provide evidence-based solutions for dyslexic students.”
Dyslexia impacts one in five individuals in some form, and often individuals who have difficulty reading or decoding information due to the condition have higher cognitive function in other areas like reasoning, critical thinking and problem solving, according to the House resolution.
Cassidy, a medical doctor and co-chair of the House Dyslexia Caucus, also noted that progress has been made in understanding dyslexia at a scientific level.
Diagnosing dyslexia early is critical so that evidence-based interventions and accommodations can be made to promote self-awareness, empowerment and educational success among students who are in their formative years, according to the resolution.