DYSLEXIA IN HPISD

Until 2022, students suspected of having dyslexia were given a dyslexia only evaluation under Section 504. Now, following updates to the Texas Dyslexia Handbook, Highland Park ISD's website states that HPISD will recommend that initial assessments for dyslexia be referred to Special Education for a Full Individual Evaluation (FIE). This does not mean a student is put into the Special Education Program, it just means that a very thorough evaluation will be done to full evaluate all areas of a student's learning. A dyslexia only evaluation under Section 504 can miss critical areas of need; this is especially concerning since 60 to 80% of dyslexic students have related learning differences that can be missed with a 504 dyslexia evaluation. Plus, students have numerous rights with a FIE, a strict timeline must be followed for FIEs, and parents are legally required to be part of decision making with an FIE - these things are not guaranteed under Section 504 evaluations.  Click here for more about Special Education vs Section 504.

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Parents seeking assistance are encouraged to contact staff members using this guide and the contact information provided below.