READMontana, a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation, was established in 2021 to address the broader issues surrounding dyslexia in the Gallatin Valley and Montana. In 2023, READMontana and its sister organization, Gallatin Valley Learning Solutions, combined forces in order to provide a more integrated approach to the needs of our community. READMontana strives to:
- provide quality screening and instructional services to children and adults with suspected dyslexia;
- minimize barriers to quality instruction among lower income families and individuals;
- increase awareness and understanding of dyslexia in our community; and
- reduce community impacts from the effects of dyslexia on mental health, substance abuse, poverty, and incarceration.
Read on for more information about each of these areas.
Educational Resources
Effective instruction for individuals with dyslexia is systematic, multi-sensory, explicit, cumulative, and focused on the structure of language. Unfortunately, many students students slip through the cracks at school - both in terms of identification and appropriate help. READMontana is committed to using evidence-based methods to increase and improve the way individuals with dyslexia are assessed, identified, and treated.
Affordability and Financial Support
When students slip through the cracks at school - they often require outside assistance for both identification and instruction.. Many families struggle to find this help, to afford the cost of private instruction, and to navigate related challenges of technology and transportation. READMontana offers tuition rates that are below national norms and provides scholarships when needed. READMontana also works to increase the availability of qualified instruction in our area.
Community Education
Myths, misunderstandings, and a general lack of information perpetuate many of the challenges related to the identification and support of dyslexia in school-age children. Most teachers receive minimal education about dyslexia in their training and parents lack the understanding to help their children. READMontana provides informational and instructional opportunities for parents, caregivers, educators, and the larger community to increase their understanding of dyslexia.
Advocacy and Collaboration
The effects of dyslexia are widespread. Dyslexia has documented links with mental illness, substance abuse, juvenile delinquency, and generational cycles of poverty — all issues that reverberate throughout our community. READMontana provides social and support groups for students, parents, and families with dyslexia to help them understand and interrupt these patterns. We also cooperate with local school districts, health partners, the criminal justice system, and other organizations on community efforts related to low literacy populations.