Introduction to Dyslexia...

Introducing myself to my students this quarter I was talking about how all my life I had known that art was 'my thing'.  I also revealed to all four of my classes my struggles through school.  I told them I am Dyslexic.  So many of the kids were surprised.  I explained to them that reading is still very much a struggle. That spelling is even worse.  I recently saw this TED talk and wanted to share it.  See this girl, IS me.  She is explains being pulled from classes, having a high IQ test but struggling to spell or read, and realizing everyday that she is 'different', even after graduation.

I have done everything in my power to fight back... I still can't read or write well but I'm proud to say I have my Masters of Education.  I write articles for School Arts Magazine.  I instruct students of all ages, even online college courses for AOE.  I recently gave a presentation at the AOE online conference for art teachers, and I was more then excited, proud, and felt accomplished.  I got through the presentation with butterflies hoping that people found what I had to say relevant.  There was praise, and thank you's and encouraging words, but most often when I think about that presentation I think of the couple of people who told me that I put 'here' in where I should have put 'hear'.  I had that presentation looked over by others, many things were changed, but I missed that.  Yet again, my words and spelling made me look as if I don't care, or I didn't give it my all.  I'm not hurt anymore by the corrections.  I simply say thank you and try to move on.  I work with teachers and teachers can't help but correct all the time:)

I shared this with my students this last week to apologize ahead of time for my typos.  I also wanted to empower the students who struggle.  I get it!  It's hard, and our world/society makes us feel as if we are less if we can not read or write.  I want my students to be empowered by what they are amazing at, whatever that might be.

So after my presentation that focused on empowering students is now complete, I continue to advocate more ways to empower students.  This time I'm suggesting sharing something personal, deep an allow your students to relate to you.  Tell them you're not perfect so that they can know it's OK, and they have a chance of success despite any struggles.