Project D.E.B.U.N.K. (Dyslexia Educational Bandwagon, Uniting Noteworthy Kids!) along with Decoding Dyslexia-Maine is inviting educators, legislators and Maine families to several upcoming informational events.
On Monday, Oct. 21 at 10 a.m., there will be a public gathering at the Maine State Library in Augusta featuring Governor Paul R. LePage as he shares his proclamation for October being Dyslexia Awareness Month in Maine. Several Maine families will also be sharing their experiences with dyslexia.
On Sunday, Oct. 27, Susan Barton, an internationally-known dyslexia expert will be presenting at the Ramada Inn in Bangor. Those who should attend include parents who are trying to determine if dyslexia is their child’s issue, or who know it is and need to understand all the areas that it will impact; reading specialists who need to know how to informally identify which of their struggling readers may have dyslexia and what to do to help them; and resource specialists who need to know how to close the gap for students who have a learning disability. Register for this free three-hour event online.
There will also be a showing of “The Big Picture: Rethinking Dyslexia” on Tuesday, Oct. 29 in Bangor at 6:30 p.m. The film provides personal and uplifting accounts of the dyslexic experience from children, experts and iconic leaders, such as Sir Richard Branson and financier Charles Schwab. Directed by James Redford, the film not only clears up the misconceptions about the condition, but also paints a picture of hope for all who struggle with it. Shining a spotlight on the latest scientific and psychological research, the film highlights the work of Directors Sally and Bennett Shaywitz, co-founders and co-directors of the Yale Center of Dyslexia and Creativity, to illuminate the hidden origins and implications of dyslexia. Proving that dyslexia is a neurological issue and not a character flaw, “The Big Picture” beautifully illustrates that while the condition is an obstacle, it also carries some unique advantages, and ultimately can be overcome. Pre-registration by Oct. 22 is encouraged.
For more information about Project D.E.B.U.N.K., visit www.dyslexiamaine.com/.