Maryland; 60% of students read below grade level; linked to failure to diagnose dyslexia

Feb 8, 2018, WBAL—TV Baltimore: Failure to diagnose dyslexia a problem in Maryland public schools http://www.wbaltv.com/article/failure-to-diagnose-dyslexia-a-problem-in-maryland-public-schools/16768853 Some literacy experts believe that more than 60 percent of Maryland public school students are reading below grade level due, in part, to the failure of educators to diagnosis a learning disorder called dyslexia. It's a message that grassroots organization Decoding Dyslexia Maryland has been trying share for years. Students who have problems with word recognition and poor spelling often go unnoticed. … Parents are pushing for change. They came from across the state to Annapolis Thursday to share their stories of frustration, and hopefully get lawmakers to listen. "It wasn't working and I would go to the school (and say), 'There's something wrong, there's something wrong,' and they kept on insisting she was fine," said Baltimore County parent Liz Hembling. … Decoding Dyslexia Maryland is supporting two bills that would require colleges go a step further in preparing teachers for the classroom. … It's an issue the group says is now being recognized by more and more Maryland parents…. Both dyslexia bills are set for hearings in Annapolis later this month.