Learning Difference Network

Defining Dyslexia: A Modern Dilemma
Discussion by Kristin Stanberry
*** Includes medical and scientific models of dyslexia, what educators say, dyslexia and education law, and how to cut through the confusion. Very helpful for parents who want to understand how different perspectives influence how the term dyslexia is used in various settings.

Department of Education
*** This document addresses changes to IDEA and explains the final regulatory requirements for the identification of specific learning disabilities.

The following sections are included:
ç 300.305 Additional requirements for evaluations and reevaluations.
ç 300.306 Determination of eligibility.
ç 300.307 Specific learning disabilities.
ç 300.308 Additional group members.
ç 300.309 Determining the existence of a specific learning disability.

Dyslexia and Specific Learning Disabilities
Bulletin by Stephanie J. Petska, State Director of Special Education, November 2006
*** This document outlines how Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction uses state law to determine eligibility for special education services under the category of specific learning disability. It specifies that a child with a reading disability, which may also be called dyslexia, must meet eligibility criteria AND have a need for special education in order to receive special education services.

IEP's vs. 504 Plans
*** A clear, concise overview of how a 504 plan differs from an IEP. Written by a Special Education Team from Tennesee.

International Dyslexia Association
Fact Sheets on Dyslexia and Related Learning Differences
*** The website houses a powerful database of articles and references with sections for parents and various professionals, as well as state branches of IDA.

Helping a struggling student who does not qualify for special services.
Written by Jan Baumel, M.S., Educational Psychologist
*** If you wonder what to do if the school evaluation did not find a learning disability but your child still struggles, this article may help. Related links are also listed.

Learning Disabilities Association of America
*** A selection of articles just for parents who are navigating the special education process--referral, eligibility, response to intervention, developing an IEP and more.

National Center for Learning Disabilities
*** This website has a powerful database of various, related articles and references.

Protecting students with disabilities, frequently asked questions about Section 504.
*** Office of Civil Rights, US Department of Education
Includes the Education of Children with Disabilities, a document created in response to Wisconsin advocates.
A must read, with a very clear review of the differences between Section 504 accommodations and Individualized Education Plans.

A parents guide to Section 504
*** A simplified overview of the Section 504 policy.

Schawb Learning
*** Great Schools is expanding their web resources to support parents whose children struggle with learning and attention difficulties, carrying on the work of the Schwab Learning website.

Special Education in Plain Language
*** User-friendly handbook on special education laws, policies and practices in Wisconsin, Fall 2007, third edition. A 66-page document developed by Wisconsin parents, advocacy organizations, school and special education administrators, general and special educators, service providers, union members, special education attorneys, and the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction.

PODCAST--Understanding standards-based IEP goals. Bright Solutions for Dyslexia--Classroom Accomodations

*** The website also includes the following topics:

*** Susan Barton also offers a free, one-hour WEBCAST on Classroom Accommodations. A thorough discussion of which classroom accommodations are important, why they are fair, and how to get them. Great for parents, teachers or tutors.

Wisconsin DPI, Proposed Criteria for the Identification of Children with Specific Learning Disabilities and Significant Developmental Delays

Wisconsin DPI, Wisconsin Administrative Code, Eff. 7/1/01
*** State special education interpretation of the statute

Chapter PI 11à CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES
PI 11.02 Definitions.
PI 11.07 Transfer pupils.
PI 11.12 Hearing officers.
PI 11.24 Related service: physical and occupational therapy.
PI 11.35 Determination of eligibility.
PI 11.36 Areas of impairment (criteria for types of specific learning disabilities)
PI 11.37 Study and report to the standing committees of the legislature

Wisconsin State Policies and Procedures for IDEA
An explanation of the individuals with disabilities education act (IDEA)
A 36 page document written by Wisconsin DPI.