Mason was always very creative and artistic as a child, but at an early age, reading was something he tried to avoid. It wasn’t for lack of wanting to read, but the frustration was not worth the effort.
Studies show that roughly 15 – 20% of the global population show some symptoms of dyslexia. The RISD Dyslexia Training Center has been formally accredited by the International Multisensory Structured Language Education Council (IMSLEC). The team offers resources to students across the district and instructional intervention for students who are identified with dyslexia.
Mason was diagnosed with dyslexia in 6th grade and began working with his Dyslexia Therapist at Richardson West Junior High. Through the remediation resources available in the district, Mason started to see reading in a new light.
Through intervention methods in the classroom and creative strategies, Mason soon discovered how his artistic mind and love for theatre became his strength in learning. “Mason is an actor, so what we do in class is like an extension of what he does in Theatre. He reads with intonation and confidence, like he would on stage,” says his Dylexia Therapist Mariana Rivero. “I learn about every student’s unique interests so that what we do in class relates to them personally, and is something they look forward to”.
As his confidence with reading grew, so did his passion for acting! Mason is part of the Theatre magnet, where he now confidently steps into the spotlight. He used to choose using his phone and technology for entertainment, but now eagerly picks up books and new scripts. Mason says, “I love acting out the script and memorizing the words I read. I feel like I didn’t necessarily have the confidence before.”
Mason is thriving in school and recently competed in the Texas Thespians Junior Festival in Forney. Richardson West’s theatre program was the largest school group ever represented at the festival! He said, “It was so fun, and one of the first real competitions I have done. The last two years in school have been the best in my life.”
We are so proud of the progress Mason and students like him make every day. We invite parents and teachers to raise awareness and celebrate the strengths of individuals with dyslexia, and to engage in conversations about what can be achieved by these incredible students when they receive appropriate support.
Learn more about Dyslexia Services in RISD.
