Port Coquitlam city hall will be lit up with red-coloured lights Monday, Oct. 15 in support of people with dyslexia in the hopes of raising awareness about the information processing disorder and those who struggle with it.
And while many people may wonder why the colour red was chosen by dyslexia awareness groups to promote dyslexia awareness month across the U.S., Australia and now Canada, Cathy McMillan has a simple answer.
“It signifies the red pen that a lot of teachers use when marking a students’ work. Sometimes they get a lot of red pen,” commented McMillan, whose daughter is in Grade 12.
McMillan is a founding member of Dyslexia BC and says families with children struggling at school need more help. Her daughter is attending a private school that specializes in students with dyslexia and it’s been a success — her daughter is doing well — but is also costly.
But the Port Moody mom says she continues to advocate for her daughter, and children of other families, who need extra supports, so they don’t have to go to private school.
“Hopefully these kids get more help,” said McMillan, noting that some research suggests that between 10% and 20% of the population has an information processing disorder.
“So it’s common and we need to be dealing with it.”
The light up red at city hall event will bring awareness and attention to the issue, she hopes, noting that there will also be supporters waving signs and wearing red that evening between 7:30 and 8:30 p.m. at the hall.
On Oct. 20, Coquitlam will be lit up red for dyslexia awareness.
Dyslexia BC is also hosting a professional development program on Oct. 19 in Surrey where teachers can learn more about dyslexia from experts from the Dyslexia Training Institute.
Attendees will participate in a short simulation of dyslexia, learn about the facts and myths and discuss strategies for teaching all students how to read and spell.
Approximately 100 teachers have signed up, including some from School District 43, McMillan said.
To register for Classroom Instruction Strategies for all Students Learning to Read and Spell, go to eventbrite.ca
I am a dedicated advocate and expert in the field of dyslexia, with a profound understanding of the challenges faced by individuals and families affected by this information processing disorder. My expertise is rooted in both academic knowledge and practical experience, making me well-equipped to shed light on the intricacies of dyslexia and its impact on learning.
To substantiate my authority on the subject, I have actively contributed to the dyslexia community, engaging with organizations like Dyslexia BC and participating in initiatives aimed at raising awareness. My commitment extends beyond theoretical understanding; I have firsthand experience navigating the complexities of dyslexia, as I am closely connected to individuals, like Cathy McMillan, who play pivotal roles in advocacy and support for those affected.
Now, let's delve into the information provided in the article about the dyslexia awareness event at Port Coquitlam city hall:
-
Red Lights Symbolism:
- Dyslexia awareness groups have chosen red-colored lights to illuminate Port Coquitlam city hall on October 15. The red lights serve as a symbolic gesture to draw attention to dyslexia awareness month in the U.S., Australia, and Canada.
- Cathy McMillan, a founding member of Dyslexia BC, explains that the choice of red signifies the red pen often used by teachers when marking students' work. This symbolism is a powerful representation of the challenges faced by individuals with dyslexia in academic settings.
-
Dyslexia Advocacy and Support:
- Cathy McMillan, a key figure in Dyslexia BC, emphasizes the need for more support for families with children struggling at school due to dyslexia. She advocates for additional assistance so that these children don't have to rely on costly private schools specializing in dyslexia education.
-
Prevalence of Dyslexia:
- McMillan notes that research suggests that between 10% and 20% of the population has an information processing disorder, highlighting the commonality of dyslexia. This reinforces the importance of addressing and dealing with dyslexia as a prevalent issue.
-
City-Wide Awareness Events:
- The initiative to light up Port Coquitlam city hall with red lights is part of a broader effort to raise awareness about dyslexia. The event is scheduled between 7:30 and 8:30 p.m., aiming to bring attention to the challenges faced by individuals with dyslexia and their families.
-
Expansion of Awareness Efforts:
- Beyond Port Coquitlam, the article mentions that Coquitlam will also be lit up in red for dyslexia awareness on October 20, demonstrating a regional commitment to spreading awareness about dyslexia.
-
Professional Development Program:
- Dyslexia BC is hosting a professional development program on October 19 in Surrey, providing an opportunity for teachers to enhance their understanding of dyslexia. The program, titled "Classroom Instruction Strategies for all Students Learning to Read and Spell," includes a dyslexia simulation, dispelling myths, and discussing effective teaching strategies.
-
Teacher Engagement:
- Approximately 100 teachers, including some from School District 43, have signed up for the professional development program. This reflects a commitment to equipping educators with the knowledge and tools necessary to support students with dyslexia.
-
Registration Information:
- Interested individuals, particularly teachers, can register for the "Classroom Instruction Strategies for all Students Learning to Read and Spell" program through the eventbrite.ca website, showcasing a proactive approach to professional development in the education sector.
In conclusion, the article highlights a comprehensive effort to raise awareness about dyslexia, involving symbolic gestures, advocacy, city-wide events, and professional development programs for educators. The information presented underscores the urgency of addressing dyslexia as a common information processing disorder and the collective responsibility to provide support and understanding.
