Dyslexia Schools In California:Everything You Need to Know

When looking for dyslexia-friendly schools in California, it's important to choose schools that truly understand and support students with dyslexia. The best schools offer special programs, trained teachers, proven teaching methods, and helpful tools like assistive technology.

We carefully picked the schools in this guide based on expert advice, parent feedback, and classroom visits. These schools have shown a strong commitment to helping students with dyslexia grow both in learning and in confidence.

This article will walk you through some of the top options in California, so you can feel confident choosing a school where your child will feel supported and ready to succeed.

What is the Percentage of Dyslexia Amongst Students In California?

In California, approximately 10% of students are identified as having dyslexia, according to recent data. However, this figure may under represent the actual prevalence due to the state's historically limited screening practices. 

• Estimated Prevalence: While 10% of students are officially identified, broader estimates suggest that up to 20% of students may exhibit some degree of dyslexia.
• Diagnosis Rates: Nationally, about 5% of schoolchildren are diagnosed with dyslexia, but many cases remain undiagnosed for years, if at all. 
• Reading Challenges: Approximately 37% of California fourth graders are unable to read at a basic level, with higher rates among students with disabilities.

Sources : (   California Courier    media-publications.bcg.com )

Legislation and Policies for Dyslexia In California

California has taken significant steps to support students with dyslexia through comprehensive legislation and policies. 

California Dyslexia Guidelines (2017)

In response to Assembly Bill (AB) 1369, the California Department of Education released the California Dyslexia Guidelines in 2017. These guidelines assist educators and parents in identifying and supporting students with dyslexia. 

They emphasize early identification, evidence-based interventions like the Orton-Gillingham approach, and the use of assistive technologies. While the guidelines are advisory and not mandatory, they provide valuable resources for best practices in supporting students with dyslexia.

Sources:  (California Department of Education, IDA Northern California, California Department of Education)

Senate Bill 114: Mandatory Early Screening (Effective 2025–26)

Signed into law in 2023, Senate Bill 114 mandates that, starting in the 2025–26 school year, all California public schools must annually screen students in kindergarten through second grade for reading difficulties, including dyslexia. 

Key aspects include:

• Approved Screening Tools: The State Board of Education will provide a list of evidence-based screening instruments suitable for diverse student populations.(Aalrr)
  
  
• Parental Notification: Parents will receive advance notice of screenings and can opt out if they choose.(SCOE)
  
  
• Timely Results: Screening results must be shared with parents within 45 days, along with explanations and next steps if needed.
  
  

This initiative aims to identify reading challenges early, allowing for timely interventions. 

Source:(Governor of California)

UCSF's "Multitudes" Screener

The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) developed "Multitudes," a neuroscience-based screening tool approved for use in California public schools. Designed to be culturally responsive and effective for English learners, this tool helps identify students at risk for reading difficulties, including dyslexia. 

Legal Definitions and Protections

California law recognizes dyslexia as a specific learning disability. Education Code Section 56337.5 includes dyslexia under the umbrella of specific learning disabilities, ensuring students with dyslexia are eligible for special education services. 

Sources:(Decoding Dyslexia CA)

Legislative Advocacy

State Senator Anthony Portantino has been a leading advocate for dyslexia-related legislation in California. His efforts were instrumental in the passage of Senate Bill 114 and securing funding for early literacy initiatives. (Wikipedia, cahelp.org)

For more detailed information, you can refer to the California Dyslexia Guidelines and the Senate Bill 114 Overview.(California Department of Education)

What Type of School Is Best For a Dyslexic?

The ideal schools are the ones where students can learn without all that unnecessary stress weighing them down.

Plus, these schools are all about recognizing the unique strengths that come with dyslexia, like creativity and thinking big-picture.

If your kid has a special interest, whether it's engineering, chess, music, or anything else under the sun, these schools give them the time and space to chase their passions.

Forget about just hunting for "reading programs" right away because, believe it or not, dyslexic students often thrive when their reading lessons align with their interests.

Now, here's the deal: if your child isn't loving school and isn't coming home all pumped up about learning, it might be time to explore other options. And guess what? That's perfectly okay – even awesome.

You can take your child out of a place that doesn't fit, even if you don't have the next school lined up right away. It's a powerful message to your child that you're in their corner and ready to support them.

Let them take a breather, catch up on some sleep, and in the meantime, you can figure out the next steps together.

Looking for learning difference/dyslexia friendly schools? Here are some must ask questions to help you pick the right dyslexia friendly school for your child.

Before attending your meeting, do a bit of background research. The more you know about dyslexia, teacher education programs and intervention programs, the more targeted you can be with your questions and the better you will understand the answers.

Support Services for Students with Dyslexia in California

California offers a variety of support services for students with dyslexia, aiming to provide effective identification, intervention, and accommodations. 

California Dyslexia Guidelines

The California Department of Education (CDE) has established guidelines to assist educators and parents in identifying and supporting students with dyslexia. These guidelines recommend the use of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) for early screening and intervention. They also emphasize the importance of structured literacy approaches, assistive technology, and fostering self-advocacy skills among students. 

Sources: (State Of Dyslexia, casponline.org, California Department of Education)

California Dyslexia Initiative (CDI)

Administered by the Sacramento County Office of Education, the CDI focuses on building statewide capacity to support students with dyslexia. Funded by a $4 million grant, the initiative provides professional development for educators, promotes early intervention strategies, and disseminates resources to schools across California. 

Source (California Department of Education)

Specialized Educational Institutions

• Charles Armstrong School (Belmont, CA): An independent school specializing in teaching students with language-based learning differences, such as dyslexia. The school offers a full academic program and aims to equip students with the tools necessary to succeed in traditional educational settings. 

• Westmark School (Encino, CA): A private institution serving grades 2 through 12, Westmark School caters to students with language-based learning differences, including dyslexia. The school integrates technology into its curriculum to enhance learning experiences. 

Source (Wikipedia)

Assistive Technology and Resources

Students with dyslexia in California have access to various assistive technologies and resources to support their learning:

• Bookshare: An online library offering accessible ebooks for individuals with print disabilities, including dyslexia.
  
  
• Learning Ally: Provides audiobooks and educational resources tailored for students with reading difficulties.
  
  
• Touch-type Read and Spell (TTRS): A program combining typing skills with phonics to support literacy development in students with dyslexia.
  

Best Dyslexia schools In California

1. Charles Armstrong School – Belmont, CA (Grades 2–8)
   Charles Armstrong offers a daily structured literacy program using the Orton-Gillingham approach. They also provide integrated speech and language therapy and focus on social-emotional growth, helping students feel confident and capable.

They use a research-based, multi-sensory approach tailored to each student's needs. The school aims to help students build confidence and succeed academically.

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2. Chartwell School – Seaside, CA (Grades K–12)
   Chartwell uses a research-based multisensory approach, integrating assistive technology and project-based learning. They offer a Bridge Program to help students transition back to mainstream schools when ready.

They focus on individualized instruction and a supportive environment to help students achieve their full potential.
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3. Athena Academy – Palo Alto, CA (Grades 1–8)
   

Athena focuses on dyslexic and twice-exceptional (2e) students with a whole-child approach. Their STEAM-rich curriculum blends arts, movement, and science to support creative learners. Their innovative teaching methods are designed to unlock each child's potential.
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4. Westmark School – Encino, CA (Grades 2–12)
   

Westmark offers a customized curriculum with speech-language therapy and assistive technology. Their high school program includes college prep and real-world readiness training. They provide a supportive environment that celebrates neurodiversity and fosters academic growth.
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5. North Bridge Academy – Larkspur, CA (Grades 3–8)
   

North Bridge uses daily small group Orton-Gillingham instruction and close collaboration with families to personalize learning. 

They also support executive functioning skills. They focus on educating students the way they learn best, with a curriculum tailored to their unique needs.
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6. The Prentice School – Santa Ana, CA (Grades K–8)
   Prentice offers individualized learning plans with a strong focus on reading, writing, and executive function. Students also have access to OT, speech therapy, and social-emotional learning.

Their immersive program is designed to prepare and empower students for a life of self-advocacy and personal growth.
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7. Sand Hill School – Palo Alto, CA (Grades 1–8)
   Sand Hill combines academic instruction with therapy-based supports for emotional regulation and self-advocacy. They use strengths-based instruction and small class sizes.

They aim to help students believe in themselves and love school again, acquiring the academic and social-emotional skills needed for lifelong success.
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8. Stellar Academy for Dyslexics – Newark, CA (Grades 1–8)
   Stellar uses the Slingerland Method (a structured language approach) in all subjects. They offer movement and art integration to support learning retention. 

Their goal is to set up students for success in school and life by providing a supportive learning environment.
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9. READ Academy – Sacramento, CA (Grades K–12)
   READ Academy personalizes curriculum using multisensory and direct instruction methods. Their full-time support extends to social and emotional development.

They provide instruction developed for each student's unique learning style.
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10. The Winston School – San Diego, CA (Grades 6–12)
    
    

 Winston provides tailored academic tracks with embedded therapy services and life skills coaching. Their programs support independence, organization, and college/career readiness.

They offer a unique educational environment that supports students with learning differences, including dyslexia.
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11. Almaden Country Day School – San Jose, CA (Grades PK–8)
    
    

 Almaden offers a Learning Support Services program that includes in-house specialists and individualized support. Their small-group reading instruction is designed for dyslexic students.
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12. Frostig School – Pasadena, CA (Grades 1–12)
    Frostig offers a comprehensive clinical team that includes therapists and learning specialists. Their social skills groups and life skills coaching complement academic learning.
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13. Hope Academy for Dyslexics – Concord, CA (Grades 1–8)
    Hope Academy provides one-on-one Orton-Gillingham tutoring and classroom instruction. Their small student-teacher ratio and faith-based values create a close-knit environment.
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14. New Bridge School – Poway, CA (Grades K–8)
    New Bridge uses direct instruction and intensive intervention strategies to close academic gaps. They also incorporate social development into their daily schedule.
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15. Park Century School – Los Angeles, CA (Grades 2–8)
    Park Century provides daily individualized reading, writing, and math instruction using research-based methods. They also have technology integration and a transition program for high school readiness.
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