HomeMy WebLinkAbout09-29-16 Public Comment - K. DuBose - Dyslexia Awareness Month I
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September 29, 2016
Dear Mayor Carson Taylor and City Council,
I am requesting that you proclaim October as "Dyslexia Awareness Month" in Bozeman for
2016.This proclamation will help raise awareness about dyslexia and how people with dyslexia
can become successful in school and in life with proper support and instruction.
I am proud to be a fourth generation Montanan and my sons are fifth generation Montanans'
living and learning in this beautiful state. Sadly, our state does not currently recognize dyslexia
and because of that, the proper training is not given to teachers who are longing to understand
this hidden disability that effects nearly 20%of the population.
My oldest son, who is now in High School at BHS is profoundly dyslexic and tested gifted. He
has, and continues to work two to three times as hard as other non-dyslexic students to learn
and earn excellent grades. I was forced to quit my career, live modestly and take on the new
role as a tutor,teacher and advocate to help him stay on his current trajectory working towards
becoming a Marine Biologist. He attended Dyslexia schools in Colorado during summers and
was able to have additional private tutoring because we sacrificed to help him learn in the way
evidence based studies have proven works for dyslexics. DD-MT is working tirelessly to ease
the path for those who will follow in our footsteps.Thank you for helping us raise awareness
and proclaiming October Dyslexia Awareness Month. I know we can do better. I believe in
Montanans to do the right thing.
Following are the recommend clauses for a proclamation to declare October as "Dyslexia
Awareness Month" in Bozeman for 2016:
Whereas, dyslexia is a language-based learning disability,that affects approximately one in five
people, regardless of race, gender, age, or socioeconomic status; and
Whereas, neurological in origin, dyslexia affects the way the brain processes information, and is
characterized by difficulties with reading, writing and spelling despite normal intelligence; and
Whereas,those with dyslexia benefit greatly from specialized assistance from highly trained
teachers, multi-sensory learning programs and individualized instruction; and
Whereas, early identification, alternative instruction and extra support from friends,family and
teachers can contribute to the success dyslexic students enjoy in the classroom, in life and, later
on, in employment.
Thank you for helping spread dyslexia awareness in Bozeman.
Kelly Fedge DuBose
Decoding Dyslexia Montana
Kelly Fedge DuBose
Founder Decoding Dyslexia Montana
CO-Founder of Gallatin Valley YMCA
I can be reached by phone at 406 579.8521
or my mail:
11284 Bridger Canyon Rd
Bozeman, MT 59715