Swift School Raises Dyslexia Awareness

The Swift School community recently turned out in record numbers to support the International Dyslexia Association’s (IDA) Dyslexia Dash in Roswell during late October.

More than 250 students, parents, faculty and friends of participated in the event to celebrate Dyslexia Awareness Month and help educate the public and raise awareness of this learning difference that affects nearly 20 percent of the population..

The 5k race, which was organized by the Georgia branch of IDA, was held at Riverside Park in Roswell and drew more than 600 race participants. After the race, participants enjoyed games, music, raffle prizes and awards. Seven members of Team Swift placed in their respective age group.

“As a parent and trustee, it was important to me for Swift School to support the IDA’s Dyslexia Dash. Too many students in Atlanta still don’t know they are dyslexic,” said Laura Ries. “One in every five students is dyslexic, yet few parents understand what dyslexia is and what signs to look for. Dyslexia is a learning difference, a difference shared by some of the greatest minds of our time like Albert Einstein and Steve Jobs.”

Proceeds from the Dyslexia Dash will help fund the IDA’s research on neurological, educational and developmental issues as they relate to dyslexia.

School leaders believe that with the right tools and methods of teaching, the challenges dyslexic children face will become opportunities for them in the future.

“The correct learning environment – one where expertise is employed – makes all the difference for dyslexics,” states Rich Wendlek, head of Swift School. “Students come to Swift from school environments where they did not experience learning success. They are initially reluctant. When placed in an instructional setting that begins to make sense, learning soars.”