Dyslexia Canada supports the findings and recommendations of the Ontario Human Rights Commission “Right to Read” report

TORONTO, February 28, 2022 /CNW/ – Dyslexia Canada applauds the efforts of the Ontario Human Rights Commission and supports the recommendations set out in its report. Learning to read is a fundamental and essential right which, according to the report, is denied to a significant number of children in Ontario. We hope the report will serve as a catalyst for making changes to the public education system by Ontario and even across the country to ensure that all students have access to a fair and equitable education. Every child deserves to learn to read.

“For parents, carers and students with dyslexia, this report is bittersweet. What we have known and defended for years is finally recognized and heard. The right to learn to read is finally recognized. The crushing gap between the science of reading and what is really happening at the school level is brought to light, and the inequitable system that currently leaves thousands of children behind is exposed. Christine Staly, Executive Director, Dyslexia Canada. “But the actionable recommendations outlined and the support from the wider community give hope and real optimism that our children can finally get the support they need to learn to read.”

Dyslexia is a specific disorder in learning to read and write. In Canada, approximately 2 to 4 children in each class struggle with dyslexia. “The truth is that the system has failed our children. This report is the first step in recognizing and addressing this injustice. But we cannot allow this to only benefit the children of Ontario.” says Keith Gray, President of Dyslexia Canada. “Every province and territory must make this their highest priority.”

MAIN RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE REPORT

Read right includes recommendations to the Ministry of Education, school boards and faculties of education on how to address systemic issues that affect the right to learn to read, including:

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• Explicitly recognize the term “dyslexia”

• Adopt a new Kindergarten curriculum and a Grades 1-8 language curriculum that includes direct and systematic instruction in foundational reading skills and prepare current and future teachers for evidence-based approaches to teaching students to read

• Screening of every student, at least twice a year, from K-2, to identify students at risk for reading difficulties, using standardized, evidence-based screening tools

• Standardize and provide stable funding for evidence-based reading interventions

• Make access to interventions equitable for all students

• Provide and support rapid and effective adaptation measures, including increased access to evidence-based software and assistive technologies

• Improve access to professional assessments and ensure greater consistency and transparency in the assessment process

• Set clear and consistent standards for school boards and require better data collection, analysis and reporting

• Improve communication with students and parents

• Work with reading science experts to implement OHRC recommendations

The report can be found here.

About Dyslexia Canada

Dyslexia Canada is a national charity committed to ensuring that every child Canada with dyslexia receives a fair and equitable education.

Dyslexia Canada was formed in 2016 to ensure there was a national voice and forum to advocate for all Canadian children with dyslexia. By partnering with professional organizations, experts and advocates, Dyslexia Canada works to drive systemic change by engaging and educating the public and establishing legislation specific to the recognition and remediation of dyslexia.

SOURCE Dyslexia Canada

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