Unlocking Dyslexia: Identification and Interventions for School Psychologists

This workshop provides school psychologists with a thorough understanding of dyslexia, assessments, and interventions, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed for accurate identification and effective intervention strategies. The combination of lectures, interactive activities, and case studies ensures that participants leave with practical insights and tools to support students with dyslexia in educational settings.

Audience: School psychologists, IEP Team Leaders, Special Education Directors
Length: One Day Workshop
Presenter/s: Dr Andy Suth, Jodi Amaditz, Chantel Touryan-Schaefer
Date: March 6, 2024
Time: 8:30am-3:30pm

Outcomes

• Participants will gain an in-depth comprehension of dyslexia, including its neurobiological basis, defining characteristics, and its impact on learning. This knowledge will enable them to recognize and differentiate dyslexia from other reading difficulties accurately.
• Attendees will acquire practical skills in using various screening tools and comprehensive assessment methods to identify dyslexia. They’ll understand the diagnostic criteria, assessment battery, and procedures required for accurate diagnosis.
• Participants will learn evidence-based interventions, such as multisensory instruction and structured literacy programs, specifically designed to address the needs of individuals with dyslexia. They’ll be equipped with strategies to personalize interventions based on individual student requirements.

Topics/Schedule

Part 1: Understanding Dyslexia – Chantel Touryan

• Welcome and Introductions
• What is Dyslexia?
  – Definition and characteristics
  – Prevalence and impact on learning
  – Neurobiological Basis of Dyslexia
• Brain regions involved
  – Reading processes affected
  – UCSF Brain Scans
• Q&A and Short Break

Part 2: Screening and Assessment – Dr. Suth

• Dyslexia Screening Tools
  – Overview of screening instruments
  – Best practices in screening
• Comprehensive Assessment for Dyslexia
  – Diagnostic criteria
  – Assessment battery and procedures
  – Understanding the scatter
  – Indicators of dyslexia
• Q&A

Lunch Break

Part 3: Case Studies – Chantel Touryan & Dr. Suth

• Case Study Analysis
  – Review of real-world cases
  – Identification and intervention planning
• Wrap-up and Discussion
• Sharing insights and experiences
• Next steps and available resources

Part 4: Implementing Dyslexia Interventions – Chantel Touryan

• Structured Literacy Approach
  – Overview of effective approaches
  – Matching intervention to need
  – Principles and techniques
  – Evidence-based practices
• IEP Friendly Language
  – Dyslexia is not a dirty word
  – Writing goals

Presenter Chantel Touryan-Schaefer

Chantel Touryan-Schaefer was a first-grade classroom teacher for 14 years before following her passion for reading instruction to become a Reading Specialist.

Chantel is a Reading Specialist and Certified Dyslexia Advocate in California and is working toward her CALT certification. She has aided numerous readers in realizing their potential using the Orton-Gillingham and Structured Literacy methods and continues to support burgeoning readers.