Houston Branch of the International Dyslexia Association

As we wrap up another school year, it’s a time for reflection, celebration, and gratitude for the growth, challenges overcome, and meaningful moments shared throughout the year.

We’re also remembering the lasting impact of former HBIDA board member Peggy Engman — a passionate advocate, Speech-Language Pathologist, and leader whose dedication helped countless individuals find their voice.

Her story reminds us that every educator, parent, and advocate makes a difference. Every day, you empower students to express their ideas, build confidence, and grow into independent learners.

As you begin your summer break, take a moment to celebrate your own perseverance and dedication — you made it to the finish line.

📖 Read our latest blog to learn more about Peggy’s inspiring legacy and reflections as we close out another meaningful school year.

🔗https://www.houstonida.org/post/a-legacy-of-advocacy-a-future-of-possibility

We can’t wait to see everyone again at our Fall Symposium on September 26, 2026!

🎨 Big ideas. Bright minds. Superpowered brains. 💡

The HBIDA Art Contest is back this August, and we can’t wait to see creativity come to life!

This year’s theme: “My Brain is a Superpower”

We’re inviting students to celebrate what makes them unique through art—because every brain works differently, and every way of thinking brings something incredible to the world. 💙

Let’s celebrate creativity, strengths, and the amazing things that make each learner shine.

👉 Watch this space for contest details!

Tag someone who would love to participate 👇

Change doesn’t happen by chance—it happens through knowledge.

This spring, explore the role you can play in advancing dyslexia and Structured Literacy awareness worldwide.

👉 Become a member: https://portal.dyslexiaida.org/IDAMemberResponsive/BranchJoinPages/Individual-Memberships-Houston.aspx

Become a member between April 1-May 15 and use the SPRING15 discount code on the More Information page for 15% off your membership!

⏰ Just 2 days left to Spring Forward with IDA.

Membership supports your growth and the advancement of evidence-based literacy.

🌸 Save 15% with code SPRING15 before May 15.
(Enter on the More Information page.)

👉 Join today: https://portal.dyslexiaida.org/IDAMemberResponsive/BranchJoinPages/Individual-Memberships-Houston.aspx

By joining IDA, you support evidence-based literacy, meaningful advocacy, and a stronger future for learners everywhere.

🌱 Spring Forward with IDA

👉 Become a member today: https://portal.dyslexiaida.org/IDAMemberResponsive/BranchJoinPages/Individual-Memberships-Houston.aspx

Become a member between April 1-May 15 and use the SPRING15 discount code on the More Information page for 15% off your membership!

Informed instruction opens doors for learners with dyslexia.

🌷 Spring Forward in your classroom with IDA and strengthen your teaching with research-driven resources and a global educator network.
👉 Join IDA today: https://portal.dyslexiaida.org/IDAMemberResponsive/BranchJoinPages/Individual-Memberships-Houston.aspx

Become a member between April 1-May 15 and use the SPRING15 discount code on the More Information page for 15% off your membership!

Advocacy begins with understanding and grows through action.

🌱 Spring Forward with IDA and support better outcomes for individuals with dyslexia through evidence-based literacy practices and education.
👉 Join IDA today: https://portal.dyslexiaida.org/IDAMemberResponsive/BranchJoinPages/Individual-Memberships-Houston.aspx

Become a member between April 1-May 15 and use the SPRING15 discount code on the More Information page for 15% off your membership!

You can help shape a student’s future.

Join IDA to access research-based tools, professional learning, and a supportive community dedicated to dyslexia-informed instruction.
🍎 Invest in your impact.
👉 Become an IDA member: https://portal.dyslexiaida.org/IDAMemberResponsive/BranchJoinPages/Individual-Memberships-Houston.aspx

Become a member between April 1-May 15 and use the SPRING15 discount code on the More Information page for 15% off your membership!

AI is becoming part of everyday learning—but when it comes to reading, especially for children with dyslexia, how we use it really matters.

Research reminds us that learning to read isn’t instant. It happens over time through:
• Explicit teaching
• Practice and repetition
• Feedback and support

AI can be a helpful tool. It can:
✔ Provide extra practice
✔ Give immediate feedback
✔ Support individual pacing

But it should never replace the role of a teacher—or the effort a child needs to build real skills.

One of the biggest risks is when AI:
❌ Gives answers too quickly
❌ Reduces thinking time
❌ Skips important learning steps

💙 The goal isn’t faster learning—it’s lasting learning.

For families and educators, the question isn’t “Should we use AI?”
It’s “Are we using it in a way that supports how children actually learn?”

Let’s keep children—and their learning—at the center of every decision.

📖 Read more here:

» View Pdf - International Dyslexia Association

🌸 Registration is NOW OPEN for the 2026 HBIDA Virtual Spring Conference!

Join us on Friday, March 27, 2026 from 8:30 AM – 1:30 PM CST for a meaningful morning of learning, collaboration, and community connection.

This virtual conference welcomes families, educators, interpreters, and professionals who support students who are deaf, hard of hearing, or deafblind.

🎓 4 ALTA and TSHA CEUs available
💻 Held virtually thanks to the generous support of Region 4 ESC

Important reminders:
• Registration closes Wednesday, March 25
• Conference link sent Thursday, March 26

We would love for you to be part of this year’s event.

👉 Register today
👉 Share this post with your network
👉 Invite a colleague or family member who would benefit

Together, we strengthen support for our students and families.

Congratulations to all the amazing students who participated in this year’s HBIDA Art Contest! Your creativity and talent truly shine. Special shoutout to our winners: Addison, Jinichiro, and Adeena for their outstanding artwork! Your creativity reminds us that art truly speaks louder than words.🎨🖌️