Issue 28: Spotlight on Dyslexia Diaries | Katie Rebagliati and Suzanne Diermann

Suzanne Diermann

I’m a literacy specialist, interventionist, and activist. In my private literacy practice, I utilize Orton-Gillingham methodologies to help students of all ages overcome dyslexia. Over the years, I’ve built strong, meaningful relationships with my students, having open conversations about what it’s like to live with dyslexia and how it affects them personally. I encourage them to share their honest struggles and successes, not only to inspire others but also to help fellow learners feel less alone.

I know that many of my students have never met another person with the same learning difference, which is when I began imagining a social media project that could give them a platform to share their authentic voices and allow others to truly hear them.

I’ll never forget when I asked one of my long-time students for some advice in helping me connect with a new student who was very reluctant to attend his sessions and put in much effort. He said, “Just tell him that Mondays and Wednesdays are my favourite days because I come to see you and you have taught me everything that I know!” It melted my heart and brought tears to my eyes.

As he began middle school, he was no longer on an IPP because he had met all of his benchmarks. He was very open and proud to let his teachers know that he is dyslexic. When they would ask him to read aloud in class or present something, he would let them know they had put him on the spot, but then say, “You know I’m dyslexic, but it’s ok, I am able to do it all because of my reading teacher. She taught me everything, so don’t worry!”