Empowering Dyslexic Achievers | Taylor Shay | TEDxHagerstownWomen
Dyslexia is a language-based learning disability without a cure. Published by the American Brain Foundation as the most common cause of reading, writing and spelling difficulties, it affects individuals regardless of gender or socio-economic background in populations across all languages. Taylor Shay encourages those with dyslexia to see their view of the world as a gift. Through early diagnosis, debunking a myth that dyslexics are dumb, structured literacy programs, and advocating for accommodations, she argues for a return to the early education system of teaching phonics to decode the English language rather than an evolving comprehensive model that has created hardships for students with varied educational needs. By taking the DIS out of disability and focusing on ABILITY, as a community, we can uplift dyslexic achievers who see the world in a unique way. Taylor Shay, of Hagerstown, is the 2025 Miss Historic Maryland titleholder. From pageants to advocacy, Taylor's journey shows how her own struggles with dyslexia sparked a passion to help others, proving that with support and understanding, dyslexic students can shine in their own way. She is also a senior at Liberty University pursing a bachelor’s degree in Elementary and Special Education where she hopes to continue her efforts of supporting students with dyslexia in the classroom. Taylor is the Founder of D.N.A. (Dyslexics Next Achievement) which works to empower the Next Generation of Advocates and Future Leaders of America with dyslexia. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
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