Dyslexia Schools In Florida:Everything You Need to Know

Florida, despite its large population, has relatively few schools specifically for students with dyslexia. However, Florida passed legislation that strengthened requirements for early identification of dyslexia, effective interventions, and professional development for teachers. This is a positive development for parents seeking better support for their children.

This article will guide you through some of the top dyslexia-friendly schools in the area, providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision for your child's education.

The schools recommended have been carefully evaluated based on their specialized programs, the dedication of their staff, and their use of proven teaching methods. 

We’ve spoken with parents, educators, and experts, and seen firsthand what works. The schools that made the list have shown a real commitment to helping students with dyslexia succeed, both academically and personally.

We want to make sure you have the information you need to choose a school where your child will feel supported, understood, and encouraged to reach their full potential. As you explore these options, know that each recommendation comes from a place of care and understanding, with your child’s best interests at heart.

Each school offers unique programs tailored to support the learning needs of students with dyslexia.

What is the Percentage of Dyslexia Amongst Students In Florida?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, among students who receive special education and related services, the most frequently reported category of disability is specific learning disabilities.

These account for 32 percent of all cases, highlighting the significant prevalence of learning disabilities within the special education population.

Specific learning disabilities often affect a student's ability to read, write, or perform mathematical calculations, and this statistic underscores the importance of targeted support and interventions for these students to enhance their educational outcomes.

Legislation and Policies for Dyslexia In Florida

Florida has implemented several key laws and policies to support students with dyslexia:

1. Senate Bill 580: Mandates screening for dyslexia in students from kindergarten through grade 3. Schools must place students with reading difficulties in intensive remedial programs and employ a certified reading instructor for dyslexia. It also establishes a Dyslexia Task Force within the Department of Education.

2. Chapter 1008, Section 25: Requires dyslexia-specific interventions alongside regular reading instruction. These must include direct teaching in language development, phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.

3. HB 7029: Obligates school districts to use evidence-based screening and remediation programs and to train teachers in these methods.

4. McKay Scholarship: Offers scholarships for students with a 504 plan or IEP to attend private schools.

5. Response to Intervention (RtI) Model: Ensures that students showing early signs of reading difficulties receive prompt, evidence-based support.

6. Dyslexia Policy - UF Literacy Institute: Confirms that dyslexia can be included in a child’s IEP and emphasizes systematic and sequential instruction as defined by the International Dyslexia Association. 

These measures aim to enhance the identification, support, and intervention for students with dyslexia in Florida.

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.

Also read Dyslexia Schools In Maryland

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 Florida

Some key support services for students with dyslexia in Florida, and unique offerings:

Public School System Support

   - Individualized Education Programs (IEPs): Public schools in Florida provide IEPs tailored to each student's needs. For more information, visit the Florida Department of Education's ESE page.

   - 504 Plans: These plans offer necessary accommodations for students with dyslexia. Learn more about 504 Plans on the Florida Department of Education's website.

Private Tutoring and Educational Services

   - Orton-Gillingham Tutors: Tutors specializing in this approach are widely available. Check out Academy of Orton-Gillingham Practitioners and Educators for a list of certified tutors in Florida. 

 - Learning Centers: Centers like Lindamood-Bell and Sylvan Learning offer dyslexia-specific tutoring across Florida.

Specialized Schools

   - The dePaul School - Clearwater, FL  

     Unique Feature: Focuses exclusively on students with learning differences like dyslexia, offering a supportive environment with small class sizes.

   - GRASP Academy - Jacksonville, FL  

     Unique Feature: A public school with specialized programs for dyslexic students, emphasizing individualized instruction and assistive technology.

Assistive Technology

   - Text-to-Speech Software: Tools like Dragon NaturallySpeaking and Kurzweil 3000 are popular choices.

   - Audio Books and Reading Apps: Resources like Learning Ally and Bookshare offer audio versions of textbooks and literature.

Support Organizations

   - Decoding Dyslexia Florida: Provides resources, support, and advocacy for dyslexia awareness in Florida.

   - International Dyslexia Association – Florida Branch: Offers workshops, conferences, and resources for parents, educators, and students.

Parent Support Groups

   - Local Support Groups: Many cities in Florida have local support groups for parents. You can find a list through Decoding Dyslexia Florida's Resources or by searching on platforms like Meetup.

These resources provide comprehensive support for students with dyslexia in Florida, helping them thrive academically and beyond.

Best Dyslexia schools In Florida

Here are 10 of the best dyslexia schools in Florida, each offering unique services and located across the state:

The dePaul School - Clearwater, FL

The dePaul School is known for its highly individualized approach to education, with a low student-to-teacher ratio and a curriculum designed specifically for students with dyslexia and other learning disabilities. Their program focuses on building self-confidence and academic skills in a supportive environment.

GRASP Academy - Jacksonville, FL

As a public school dedicated to students with dyslexia, GRASP Academy offers a specialized curriculum with a strong emphasis on reading and language arts. The school is praised for its commitment to providing accessible education within the public school system.

Roberts Academy - Lakeland, FL

Roberts Academy is the first transitional school in Florida designed specifically for children with dyslexia. The academy offers a comprehensive program that includes intensive reading instruction, and students benefit from a nurturing environment that helps ease their transition to mainstream education.

Pace Brantley School - Longwood, FL

This school offers an individualized educational experience tailored to students with various learning disabilities, including dyslexia. It’s renowned for its holistic approach, which includes academic support, social skills development, and life skills training.

- Website: Pace Brantley School

Woodland Hall Academy - Tallahassee, FL

Woodland Hall Academy specializes in helping students with dyslexia and ADHD through a structured, multisensory learning approach. Parents and students appreciate the small class sizes and the personalized attention each student receives.

Centre Academy - Multiple Locations, FL

With locations across Florida, Centre Academy is designed for students with ADHD, dyslexia, and other learning differences. The school is well-regarded for its small class sizes, personalized instruction, and supportive learning environment.

- Locations: Jacksonville, Pinellas Park, and Wellington, FL

Einstein Montessori School - Cocoa, FL

This school integrates the Montessori method with specialized instruction for dyslexia, offering a unique combination of hands-on learning and individualized support. The Montessori approach is especially beneficial for children who thrive in a more flexible, student-centered learning environment.

- Website: Einstein Montessori School

The McGlannan School - Fort Lauderdale, FL

The McGlannan School provides individualized, multisensory instruction specifically tailored to students with dyslexia. The school is known for its warm, family-like atmosphere and its commitment to helping students achieve their full potential.

Einstein School - Gainesville, FL

Offering a supportive and nurturing environment, Einstein School provides a specialized program for students with dyslexia, emphasizing individualized instruction and small class sizes. The school is highly regarded for its commitment to academic excellence and student well-being.

Eagle Hill School - Hardwick, MA (Serving Florida Students)

Although located in Massachusetts, Eagle Hill School is a popular choice for Florida families seeking top-tier education for students with dyslexia. The school offers a comprehensive boarding program with a strong focus on individualized learning strategies and support.

- Location: Hardwick, MA (Accepts students from Florida)

These schools are celebrated for their specialized approaches, making them some of the best options for students with dyslexia in Florida. For more details, be sure to visit their respective websites.

Conclusion

Florida offers a diverse range of schools and support services specifically tailored for students with dyslexia. From specialized private schools like The dePaul School and GRASP Academy, which provide unique, supportive environments, to comprehensive public school accommodations and private tutoring services, families in Florida have access to a variety of resources that cater to the unique needs of dyslexic students.

Whether you're seeking intensive one-on-one support, specialized technology, or a school environment designed to empower students with learning differences, Florida's educational landscape is rich with options to help every student thrive.