Dyslexia is a neurological difference that causes difficulty reading for people who otherwise have the ability to be strong readers. It’s typically linked to challenges in processing the sounds of language — which can impact reading, spelling, and writing.
“Dyslexia is not a reflection of intelligence,” said Dr. Suzanne Lavelle, a psychologist at Lakeland Psychology who specializes in learning disorder evaluations. “You can be extremely bright, even gifted, and still struggle to read because of how your brain processes language.”
At Roberts Academy at Florida Southern College, students with dyslexia receive individualized support that can change the trajectory of their futures.
The scope of dyslexia and why early support matters
About 1 in 5 people have dyslexia. Many students struggle without ever being formally diagnosed.
Without early intervention, students can fall behind academically — and lose confidence in the process. “Learning gaps can snowball over time, making it harder for students to catch up and increasing the risk of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem,” Lavelle said.
This challenge can shape everything from graduation rates to career opportunities…