GISD Dyslexia Informer

Winter Edition

Hello Dyslexia Families!

We are off to a great start this year and have been working toward providing a positive, successful experience this year for our students and families.


Here is what we have to look forward to this year;


  • Dyslexia Events: Just like in years past, we will continue to have dyslexia events! Some events we will be hosting, virtual and/or face to face will be: Dyslexia Simulation, Bilingual Events and Bilingual Simulation, Parent Resource Groups, Don Johnston, and more!
  • GISD Symposium: We will be hosting another GISD Symposium for parents, teachers, dyslexia professionals and community members!
  • Dyslexia Instruction and Support: Every student identified will receive the services they need. Every grade level and campus provides dyslexia instruction, accommodations and support. We are here for you!

Mark Your Calendars

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Don Johnston Human Learning Tools: What are They and How They Can Help Your Student?

Does your student struggle with reading and writing? Have you ever been concerned that your student is struggling with accessing the curriculum? In GISD, we are fortunate to have tools availble for students to ensure equal access to content. Accommodations, and access to tools that support our students learning, is invaluable.


Don Johnston tools, such as Snap&Read and Co-Writer are available for all of our students, and can be a game changer in the life of students and families.


Check out Don Johnston Webinars and their Learning Academy, here: https://learningtools.donjohnston.com/learning-academy/

Check Out Our Website!

Not sure who the dyslexia teacher/therapist on campus is? Are you wondering what resources there are for dyslexia support? Check out our website!

WIth resources available with a click of a button, you can access the Texas Dyslexia Handbook, Don Johnston tools, Learning Ally, GISD Informer newsletters, Dyslexia Calendar of Events and more!


Not sure how to access it? You can follow this link:

https://garlandisd.net/programs-services/dyslexia


We will continue to update the site with new informatio as we move throughout the year. Thank you, and we look forward to hearing from you.

GISD Dyslexia Therapist Spotlight

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Darlene Hewitt, M.ED, LDT, CALT, DYSLEXIA THERAPIST SHOREHAVEN ELEMENTARY

Born and raised in Denison, Texas, and graduated from Denison High School. I received a B.A. in Business Administration from Kansas Wesleyan University, Salina, Kansas. Masters of Education in Curriculum and Instruction with a Triple Literacy Focus from the University of Texas in Arlington. I received my Academic Language Therapy Training from Southern Methodist University. I have also received training from Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children and MTA training. This is my 10th year in Garland ISD and this year will make 5 years on the Dyslexia team. I have been a classroom ESL teacher, Newcomer Teacher, ESL Interventionist, Master Reading Teacher, and girls’ basketball coach. I am so blessed to work in a job that allows me to do what my entire career has prepared me for and that is to teach children to read. During my free time, I enjoy traveling and spending time with my husband of 31 years, Nate, and my 3 children and Grandbaby, Choncee, Chelcee, Braedon, and Thyri.

Community Dyslexia resources

International Dyslexia Association

The International Dyslexia Association is committed to creating a future for all individuals who struggle with dyslexia and other related reading difference so that they may have a richer, more robust lives and access to the tools and resources they need. The IDA provides information and resources to parents, teachers, students, and communities regarding dyslexia all over the world. Click on the link below to find out more about your local Dallas Branch IDA!


Dallas Branch IDA

StandUp LD

Our goal is to inspire students, educate parents, and support teachers! We have programming throughout the year in Dallas that is free for parents and students. Our target audience is parents and students who want support with Dyslexia, ADHD, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia, & Dyspraxia. Stay connected with us via Facebook and our website. Also, if you need help with anything feel free to contact us.

Contact: Heather McGehearty

cell: 972-948-1568

email: heather@standupld.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StandUpLD/

Website: https://standupld.org/

Decoding Dyslexia

Online parent resources about dyslexia

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DecodingDyslexiaTX/