Texas Dyslexic Students in Special Education Surges Over 600%, Report Says

Introduction

The number of students diagnosed with dyslexia in Texas special education programs has skyrocketed by more than 600% in recent years, according to a newly released state report. This dramatic increase has raised important questions about how schools are identifying and supporting students with learning differences. In this article, we’ll explore what this surge means for Texas families, educators, and policymakers, and what steps can be taken to ensure all students receive the support they need.

Key Points

Background

Dyslexia is a learning disorder that affects how the brain processes written language, making reading and spelling challenging for affected individuals. For years, Texas, like many states, struggled with identifying and supporting students with dyslexia. In 2018, the state eliminated the controversial “Dyslexia Cap,” which had previously limited the percentage of students who could receive special education services for dyslexia. This policy change, along with increased awareness and improved screening methods, has led to a surge in identification.

The 2025 TEA report shows that the number of Texas students receiving special education services specifically for dyslexia has grown from approximately 3,000 in 2018 to over 21,000 in 2024. This represents an increase of more than 600% in just six years. The report also notes that while identification has improved, there are still concerns about whether schools have the resources and trained staff to provide appropriate interventions for all identified students.

Analysis

The dramatic increase in identified dyslexic students in Texas special education programs reflects both positive and challenging developments. On the positive side, the removal of identification caps and increased awareness mean that more students who genuinely need support are receiving it. This is a significant step forward from previous years when many students with dyslexia went unidentified or unsupported.

However, the rapid growth also presents challenges. Schools must now accommodate a much larger population of students requiring specialized instruction. This includes hiring additional trained staff, providing appropriate materials and technology, and ensuring teachers have the necessary training to support these students effectively. Some districts report waiting lists for specialized dyslexia services, indicating that demand is outpacing available resources.

Experts suggest that the surge may also reflect improved screening processes that are catching students who previously slipped through the cracks. Many students with dyslexia are highly intelligent but struggle specifically with reading and writing tasks. Without proper identification, these students may have been mislabeled as unmotivated or underperforming when they actually had an undiagnosed learning difference.

Practical Advice

For parents concerned about dyslexia, early identification is key. If you notice your child struggling with reading, spelling, or learning letter sounds despite normal intelligence and adequate instruction, consider requesting an evaluation from your school district. Texas law requires schools to provide dyslexia screening and, if needed, specialized instruction at no cost to families.

Teachers can support students with dyslexia by using multisensory teaching methods, providing audiobooks and text-to-speech technology, allowing extra time for reading and writing tasks, and breaking assignments into smaller, manageable chunks. Professional development in recognizing and supporting students with dyslexia is increasingly important as these numbers grow.

School administrators should prioritize hiring certified dyslexia specialists, providing ongoing professional development for all staff, and ensuring that intervention programs are evidence-based and properly implemented. Creating a culture of awareness and support throughout the school can make a significant difference in outcomes for students with dyslexia.

FAQ

Conclusion

The more than 600% increase in Texas students identified with dyslexia in special education programs represents a significant shift in how the state approaches learning differences. While this surge presents challenges in terms of resources and staffing, it also reflects important progress in identifying and supporting students who need help. Moving forward, Texas will need to continue investing in teacher training, intervention programs, and support services to ensure that this growing population of students receives the education they deserve. The ultimate goal is to create an educational system where all students, regardless of learning differences, can thrive and reach their full potential.