A Deeper Understanding of Dyslexia: What Every Educator Needs to Know

Recorded on-site at the 2026 NeMTSS Summit, this episode of The Good Life EDU Podcast explores our evolving understanding of dyslexia and what that means for identifying and supporting students in Nebraska classrooms. Joining the conversation are Theresa Nicholls, an education consultant and former school psychologist, and Pamela Bazis, assistant professor at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln and co-director of the Kit and Dick Schmoker Reading Center. Together, they unpack the newly updated definition of dyslexia, challenge common misconceptions, and explore why reading difficulties can look different from one student to the next. They also discuss how students can mask their struggles, the emotional toll those challenges can take, and why some reading difficulties don't become apparent until later grades. The conversation also highlights the important role of Nebraska's MTSS framework in connecting early identification, multiple sources of assessment data, and evidence-based literacy instruction to the individualized supports students need. From classroom observations to structured literacy practices, this episode offers educators valuable insights into recognizing reading challenges and responding in ways that help every student experience success. Resources referenced in this episode: Nebraska Department of Education Dyslexia Guide and Implementation Guide UNL Kit and Dick Schmoker Reading Center Nebraska WORDS Project International Dyslexia Association's Updated Definition of Dyslexia (2025)