There are times when a bright student who loves science and can talk for hours about it, finds mathematics or reading hard. They struggle in certain subjects more than their peers. They may often mix up the letters and keep getting stuck on basic math problems. This is a very common scenario for students with Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD). – A neurological condition affecting reading, writing, or math related skills. Students with dyslexia or dyscalculia don’t lack any sort of intelligence, but it’s about the way their brain processes the information. SLD is unlike other learning challenges caused by external factors.
Therefore, recognizing SLD in students can be difficult but the key is to provide the right support to students, helping them to thrive in education.
Specific Learning Disability (SLD) Detailed Overview
Definition and psychological processes involved
SLD is a group of neurological disorders affecting a brain’s ability to receive, process and store the information. A brain’s response to that information will be different, adding difficulties in skills such as reading (dyslexia), writing (dysgraphia), and math (dyscalculia).
Students with SLD frequently struggle to comprehend and organize information because of the psychological processes involved in the disorder. It is difficult for them to complete academic activities that others may find simple. For example, although a dyslexic child has no issue understanding and communicating complicated ideas, they may find it difficult to interpret words.
Exclusions from SLD classification
Even though SLDs cover a wide range of learning difficulties, some conditions are specifically left out of this category. Recognizing these exclusions makes it easier to identify and assist students with SLDs.
Visual, hearing, or motor disabilities
These conditions are not considered specific learning disabilities (SLDs) even if they cause a student to struggle in their academic endeavors. Different kinds of support are needed for these disorders, with an emphasis on addressing the unique physical or sensory difficulties rather than processing-based approaches.
Intellectual disabilities
SLDs are not the same as cognitive impairments. While intellectual impairments have more extensive cognitive issues that impact overall functioning, SLDs involve distinct areas of struggle within an otherwise ordinary cognitive profile.
Serious emotional disabilities
While they can have a substantial negative influence on learning, behavioral or emotional problems are not classified as SLDs. For instance, a student experiencing extreme anxiety may find it difficult to focus in class; yet, educational and psychological therapy tailored to SLD patients would not be used to address this issue.
Cultural factors
Although a student’s cultural background may have an impact on their language skills or learning style, cultural differences are not considered specific learning disabilities. For example, a youngster from a non-English speaking home may initially struggle with literacy in English; nevertheless, language assistance, not SLD therapies, address this issue.
Environmental or economic disadvantages
Environmental challenges, such poverty or limited access to resources for education, are not classified as SLDs. To help close the gap, these variables call for more extensive social and educational support networks.
Limited English proficiency
Although it is not considered an SLD, students who are still learning the language may find it difficult to complete academic assignments in English. Programs for language acquisition are more beneficial to these youngsters than special education services meant for students with disabilities.
Areas of SLD Impact
A student’s language, literacy and mathematics are the most common areas of concern with specific learning disabilities. Such challenges present difficulties in certain subjects despite the intelligence level.
There are telltales that should not be ignored, and students can be provided the support they need.
Language and Literacy
A most common struggle that a student faces is in language and literacy. They might struggle to read and write or even understand the text. It’s easy to mix up the letters or even skip the words when reading. Sometimes a student can have trouble spelling a word. For instance, a student can confuse ‘b’ with ‘d’ or poorly follow written instructions.
Mathematics
Students with SLD may find it difficult to comprehend number ideas, carry out simple calculations, or solve mathematical issues. They may have trouble remembering multiplication tables or fundamental math facts, or they may write numbers in reverse (e.g., “63” instead of “36”). For instance, a student may have anxiety during math classes or continually count on their fingers when performing simple addition. These symptoms frequently show themselves as challenges with money, time, and abstract problem solving.
SLD Eligibility Criteria
Students under the category Specific Learning Disability (SLD) must fulfill eligibility to be eligible for Special Education services. Among these are notable disparities in a student’s scholastic achievement in one or more subjects, such as reading, writing, or math, and their intellectual capacity.
Input from instructors and parents, classroom observations, and standardized testing are commonly included in the review process.
It’s crucial to remember that SLD cannot be caused by additional conditions like intellectual disability, emotional instability, vision, hearing, or movement impairments, or environmental conditions like limited English proficiency or cultural differences.
Resources and Support Networks
Specific Learning Disability Listserv (CO-SLD Listserv)
For educators, parents, and other professionals who work with students who have specific learning disabilities, the CO-SLD Listserv is a priceless resource. It facilitates communication amongst those who wish to remain current on the most recent findings, resources, and methods for assisting students with SLD.
Purpose and scope
The Listserv offers a forum for the exchange of useful knowledge, inquiries, and access to SLD-related materials, such as policy updates and instructional methodologies.
Subscription instructions
Go to the CO-SLD Listserv webpage, enter your email address, and complete the short registration form in order to subscribe. Updates will start arriving in your mailbox directly.
Unsubscription instructions
You can always opt out of the Listserv at any moment by visiting the Listserv website or clicking the “unsubscribe” link included at the bottom of any email to have your email removed from the list.
Disclaimer
Although the Listserv is a public forum, formal guidance from educational or legal professionals is still supposed to be sought after. Always use official channels to confirm facts before making judgments about SLD services.
Legal Framework and State Regulations
Florida Rules and Regulations
The identification, assessment, and provision of special education services for students with Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD) are regulated by particular laws and standards in the state of Florida. These regulations guarantee that pupils have the necessary assistance to excel academically.
Rule 6A-6.0331, F.A.C.
The General Education Intervention Procedures are described in this rule. It goes over the procedures schools must follow to recommend a student for special education services. These consist of identifying the student’s requirements, implementing early intervention techniques, and doing a comprehensive assessment of the student’s development. It guarantees that before a kid is determined to require special education, they are given every opportunity to succeed through general education support.
Rule 6A-6.03018, F.A.C.
The Special Education Eligibility for Students with Specific Learning Disabilities is the main topic of this rule. It describes the standards used to identify SLDs and determine whether a kid is eligible for special education services. It outlines the kinds of evaluations and information that need to be gathered to verify that a student’s learning challenges are caused by an SLD as opposed to other elements like inadequate instruction or language hurdles.
State Board of Education Rule 6A-6.03018, F.A.C.
The eligibility requirements for students with SLD are further reinforced by this rule. It guarantees that, when identifying kids who need special education support because of a learning disability, schools throughout the state adhere to the same criteria.
Conclusion
It is imperative to comprehend and adhere to the legal framework for the identification and provision of support for children with Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD) to guarantee that every kid is given every chance to succeed. Like Florida’s laws, the regulations in force contribute to the development of a unified strategy for giving the appropriate educational interventions to students who most need them. Parents and teachers can work together to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for students with SLD by being aware of the legal requirements.
K Altman Law is available to assist you if you need assistance navigating the complexity of special education legislation. Our knowledge of education legislation guarantees that you will receive the support you require to stand up for your child’s rights and obtain the services they are entitled to. Speak with us now to protect.
