Arizona's private dyslexia school

The Jones-Gordon School

 

Paradise Valley, Arizona

Understanding Dyslexia

The Jones-Gordon School is dedicated to supporting, educating, and empowering individuals, families, educators, and practitioners. We aim to foster a safe space, offering extracurricular and summer programs to our broader community. Our commitment lies in breaking down barriers, raising awareness, and fostering more inclusive learning environments where dyslexia is not just understood but accommodated and celebrated.

The Definition of Dyslexia

Dyslexia is a specific learning disability characterized by difficulties in word reading and/or spelling that involve accuracy, speed, or both and vary depending on the orthography. These difficulties occur along a continuum of severity and persist even with instruction that is effective for the individual’s peers. The causes of dyslexia are complex and involve combinations of genetic, neurobiological, and environmental influences that interact throughout development. Underlying difficulties with phonological and morphological processing are common but not universal, and early oral language weaknesses often foreshadow literacy challenges. Secondary consequences include reading comprehension problems and reduced reading and writing experience that can impede growth in language, knowledge, written expression, and overall academic achievement. Psychological well-being and employment opportunities also may be affected. Although identification and targeted instruction are important at any age, language and literacy support before and during the early years of education is particularly effective.

The International Dyslexia Association (IDA) is pleased to share the 2025 Dyslexia Definition, developed through a rigorous, collaborative process to reflect the latest research and the lived experiences of individuals with dyslexia. To explore the definition in greater depth, including the scientific and community-based foundations that informed its development, visit the 2025 IDA Definition Explanation below and view the  IDA Definition Presentation .

🆕 Newly added for 2026! 

Enroll in one of our dyslexia workshops to learn more about what it is like to Experience Dyslexia® as well as how to help individuals with dyslexia in our Dyslexia 101® workshop

International Dyslexia Association (IDA) Workshops

Free training for parents & educators.

Experience Dyslexia™

Participants rotate through six learning stations that simulate language-related tasks typically encountered in classroom and workplace settings. Station facilitators guide participants through each 10-minute activity.

Cost
FREE

Location
In-Person available

Dyslexia 101™

The workshop provides attendees with information about dyslexia and helps schools and communities start a conversation about how to help students with dyslexia.

Cost
FREE

Location
In-Person & Remote available

Additional Resources

We specialize in helping students with dyslexia.  We have cultivated a list of content, academic materials, and a list of organizations that help empower individuals with dyslexia. 

Download our guide for the signs to dyslexia, check out list of recommended reading options to educate yourself on dyslexia, and know there are intervention and learning tools available to you and your family.

Download

Signs of Dyslexia

Click to download some of the most common signs of dyslexia.

Teaching

Intervention &
Learning Tools

Tools to help you make effective progress for learning.

Giving

Dyslexia Research
& Resources

Find a list of helpful resources for your dyslexic child.