Dyslexia is a term used to describe reading difficulties with sounding out words (decoding), reading text fluently, and spelling. These difficulties are often related to weaknesses in phonological awareness, which is the ability to hear and manipulate sounds in language. 

Dyslexia is not rare and affects approximately 1 in 5 school-aged children, which is why screening for these characteristics is important. With effective interventions and classroom supports, students with characteristics of dyslexia can become proficient readers and writers. 

The Tennessee "Say Dyslexia" law of 2016 requires school districts to screen students for characteristics of dyslexia at regular intervals during the school year according to grade level.The term characteristics of dyslexia refers to difficulties some students may have with reading and writing. Some students who are identified through this screening process will meet the state's criteria for an Individualized Learning Plan for characteristics of dyslexia, or ILP-D.

Some families are receiving a letter because their child has met the criteria for an ILP-D. An ILP-D is not a diagnosis of dyslexia nor is it an indication that a student has a specific learning disability. Instead, an ILP-D is a plan that documents a student's needs and outlines how the school will support those needs.

• Parent consent is required for a child's ILP-D to be created.
• Declining an ILP-D does not exempt a student from participating in the universal screening process or from receiving reading intervention services.
• Families will either receive a printed consent letter or an email (sent to the primary email address on file with the district) from pcgus.com with a link to sign electronically through EdPlan Connect.

Giles County Schools is committed to every child’s academic success, and we are glad to have the opportunity to provide students with the necessary instruction and support they need. If you have any questions about the ILP-D process and/or the benefits it will afford your child, please contact your child’s school.