RUTHERFORD COUNTY, TN - Dyslexia is a common learning disorder affecting many students in both Rutherford County Schools and the Murfreesboro City School System. According to the Center for Dyslexia at MTSU, at least 100,000 students in grades K-12 statewide have dyslexia. Nationally, the National Institutes of Health estimate that 15% of the population may be dyslexic.

Characteristics of dyslexia can include confusion of visually or phonetically similar letters, difficulties with sequencing and monitoring sounds in reading, and challenges with spelling. Younger children may show a delay in talking, difficulty remembering letter names, and trouble following directions. Reports also indicate there are quite a few myths surrounding dyslexia, along with a few rarities… That was Dr. Jennifer Stewart, who recently became the assistant director for research initiatives at the Tennessee Center for the Study and Treatment of Dyslexia on the MTSU campus. 

Dr. Stewart told WGNS that dyslexia is most accurately diagnosed in first and second grade, though signs can appear as early as pre-K… Early intervention is crucial for future student success, which is why parents are encouraged to have their children screened for dyslexia if they notice signs of the disability. Parents can sign their children up for a free dyslexia screening at the MTSU Center for Dyslexia... Help is also available for high school students that were diagnosed with dyslexia in 9th grade or later…

MORE DETAILS: On the MTSU campus, Dr. Stewart aims to advance the Center for Dyslexia’s mission to educate, evaluate, and research dyslexia... She hopes that the Center's research will lead to a deeper understanding of dyslexia. Stewart will also analyze data collected by the Center to see how educators use screening results to guide their teaching, training, and identify students who may be at risk for dyslexia or related difficulties.

• Learn more about the center, dyslexia screening and more: MTSU.edu/Dyslexia