Why Watch Left Behind?
Dyslexia affects 1 in 5 children globally, yet access to diagnosis, intervention, and tailored instruction remains deeply unequal. In Left Behind, a group of determined mothers in New York City launch the first public dyslexia school in the nation’s largest school district—seeking justice, inclusion, and educational equity.
This is a story about:
– The barriers families face when schools lack capacity or resources
– How communities can organize to demand change
– The untapped potential of students with learning differences
– Education justice as a civil rights issue, especially in underserved communities
Call to Action: What You Can Do After Watching
We hope Left Behind will spark dialogue, action, and new ideas in our region. After the screening, we invite you to:
1. Join a conversation — engage in a facilitated discussion (in person or virtual) to reflect on what you saw and relate it to our local context.
2. Explore next steps — seek to understand early screening policies and how to utilize data to expand intentional tiered supports.
3. Become a champion — whether you’re an educator, parent, administrator, or community leader, your voice matters in shifting educational systems.
4. Share with others — encourage colleagues, friends, and community stakeholders to view the film and join the conversations
About OESD 114
Olympic Educational Service District 114 supports 17 school districts across the Olympic Peninsula in Washington. We provide services such as:
Professional learning and coaching
Leadership development
Support for programs in special education, literacy, and equity
Resource coordination to promote high-leverage practices across districts
Our mission: to empower educators and improve systems so all learners can thrive. (Learn more at oesd114.org.) We would be happy to partner with you to apply your new learning in your district, school and learning community.
Helpful Resources & Further Opportunities
– Left Behind — Official Film Platform Event Page
– International Dyslexia Association — resources, best practices, research
– Understood.org — support and advocacy for students with learning differences
– OSPI– resources on dyslexia and literacy initiatives
– Dyslexia and Equity in Action 3-Part Series ← Register Here
Session 1: Understanding Washington’s Dyslexia Law
Session 2: Making Data Work
Session 3: Building Sustainable Systems of Support
