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What is a learning disability?
A learning disability is a neurologically based disorder that interferes with a person's ability to store, process, or produce information.  It creates a "gap" between a student's ability and performance.  Individuals with learning disabilities are generally of average or above average intelligence.

Learning disabilities can affect a student's ability to write, read, speak, or compute math. It can also interfere with social skills in the classroom.  Students with learning disabilities can have significant difficulties on certain tasks, while excelling at others.

Learning disabilities are NOT the result of mental retardation, autism, deafness, behavioral disorders, blindness, economic disadvantage, cultural differences, lack of instruction, or environmental factors.

What should I do if I think my child has a learning disability?

If your child is having academic difficulties, you should first speak with the regular classroom teacher.  The teacher will listen to your concerns and may refer your child to the school's Child Study Team. This team of professionals may develop an intervention plan or behavioral strategies to help your child improve classroom performance.  Modifications and adaptions may be attempted in an effort to overcome any academic difficulties.  If the modifications are not successful, the Child Study Team may recommend a multidisciplinary evaluation to determine your child's current educational needs.  This evaluation will help determine the presence, or absence, of any disability that is interfering with educational performance.
How many students have a learning disability?
According to the U.S. Department of Education, more than 2.8 million children receive special education as students with learning disabilities.  This represents approximately 5% of all school aged children in the United States.  52% of all children receiving special education services through the public schools are identified as learning disabled. 


Find out more about Learning Disabilities:

Learning Disabilities Online
Learning Disabilities Association of America
 

TPS Statement of non-discrimination:
 "Tulsa Public Schools is an equal opportunity organization and does not discriminate in its educational and employment
policies and programs on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, veteran status, or disability.
For information, contact the Director of Compliance at  (918)746-6357."

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