Dyslexia Canada Spotlight
Across Canada educators and researchers are working together with the common goal of ensuring that every child can realize their right to read. Many schools have begun to implement early screening, evidence-informed classroom instruction, and early intervention. Educators in these schools say that the results of these changes have been transformative, both for students and teachers. Many more are curious about these practices but are unsure of what these changes look like in the classroom or how to get started. In this ongoing series, we share the stories of Canadian educators and researchers who are implementing these important changes. They will discuss both the challenges they have faced and the solutions that have allowed them to move forward and improve outcomes and equity for students. We hope that this series will encourage a national dialogue about why implementing practices that are aligned with the science of reading is a social justice and equity issue.
Episodes
Friday Apr 19, 2024
Friday Apr 19, 2024
Welcome to the first episode of the Dyslexia Canada Educational Excellence Awards podcast series featuring an engaging conversation with its executive Director, Alicia Smith. In this episode, Alicia extends her heartfelt congratulations to the deserving winners while providing fascinating insights into the inception and significance of these awards. Whether you're passionate about education, advocacy, or simply intrigued by the remarkable achievements celebrated by Dyslexia Canada, this podcast promises to inform and inspire.
Friday Apr 19, 2024
Friday Apr 19, 2024
In this series, we profile the recipients of the Dyslexia Canada Educational Excellence Awards. Dr. Linda Siegel, recipient of Lifetime Achievement Awards, is an Emeritus Professor in the Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology and Special Education at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver. Dr. Siegel has emerged as a prominent figure in addressing dyslexia and other learning disabilities, with a vast body of research and over 200 publications to her name. What sets her apart is her unwavering advocacy and readiness to question educational bureaucracies and governments, all in the pursuit of a brighter future for children.
Friday Apr 19, 2024
Friday Apr 19, 2024
In this episode, we speak with Joanna Rowe, an educational consultant, is leading the charge with the Read and Talk Professional Learning Community within Kativik Ilisarniliriniq, the school board of Nunavik, Quebec. Where students with dyslexia confront hurdles stemming from limited access to specialized resources, multilingual environments, educational disparities, stigma, and a lack of awareness. Having resided and worked in Nunavik since 2020, Joanna Rowe perceives her contribution as a part of the Truth and Reconciliation process. “If you can read, you're much more resilient against trauma, which is something many of our students are affected by—and if you're fluent in reading, the world is yours,” she emphasizes.
Friday Apr 19, 2024
Friday Apr 19, 2024
In the realm of education, few pursuits are as noble and impactful as striving for equity. Melanie Baerg, a school psychologist, BC certified teacher, and instructor at both the University of Northern BC and Vancouver Island University, embodies this ethos wholeheartedly. Throughout her career, she has championed the cause of equitable education and effective instruction for all learners, particularly those grappling with dyslexia.
Monday Apr 15, 2024
Episode 5: Breaking Barriers: Andrea Van Hoof's Path to Inclusive Education
Monday Apr 15, 2024
Monday Apr 15, 2024
Andrea Van Hoof, a dedicated teacher at Bertha Kennedy Catholic School in St. Albert, Alberta, has been instrumental in a transformative process aimed at supporting both students and colleagues. Her commitment to inclusive education has earned her the 2024 Dyslexia Canada Educational Excellence Award.
Friday Dec 09, 2022
Re-culturing literacy instruction in a Nova Scotia school
Friday Dec 09, 2022
Friday Dec 09, 2022
Andrew Francis, Principal, of New Glasgow Academy in Nova Scotia, and members of his school team will discuss their initiative to improve student outcomes by creating a culture shift within their school. They will share their strategies, challenges and lessons learned. This is a must-watch episode for principals!
Friday Dec 09, 2022
Barriers, myths, and successes in teaching and learning early literacy
Friday Dec 09, 2022
Friday Dec 09, 2022
A conversation among three experienced educators and teacher educators, sharing their varied perspectives and their work as a literacy improvement team in both provincial and First Nation school contexts. Featuring Dr. Julia O’Sullivan, Institute of Health Policy Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Steven Styers Principal of Hillside Elementary at Kettle at Stony Point First Nation, and Vaughan Stoyka an educator with over 40 years of experience in special education, second language acquisition, teacher training, school improvement, and curriculum development.
Friday Dec 09, 2022
Implementing system change in Alberta
Friday Dec 09, 2022
Friday Dec 09, 2022
Alberta has recently rolled out a new language curriculum and universal screening program. Dr. George Georgiou, of the University of Alberta and Mike McMann, Superintendent of the Fort Vermilion School Division, discuss their experiences implementing these changes. They will discuss the challenges they have faced and the solutions that have been effective in improving outcomes for Alberta students.