Offering information about learning differences is one of the ways we support our Edison families. Because we want to make a positive impact for as many LD students as possible—even those who do not attend Edison—we are happy to make these resources available to the community as well. To learn more, click here for Learning Disability Facts. 

Thomas A. Edison High School offers a parent education series in partnership with ORBIDA (Oregon Branch of the International Dyslexia Association). This  monthly series is held on evenings in October through May, in our Community Room. Throughout the series, a variety of speakers address topics that pertain to parents of children with learning differences. For more information, including speakers, admission fees and event registration, please visit the ORBIDA events page. We also arrange for additional speakers and education evenings based on the needs of our current parent population.

Colleen O'Mahony "Beyond Daily Behavior Charts"
April 17, 2012, 7:00 p.m.
Thomas Edison High School
Organized by Portland Parents of ADHD Children

Please join us for "Beyond Daily Behavior Charts: Fostering Effective Communication between Parents and Schools Under Challenging Circumstances."  Colleen O'Mahony, MA, MSED, is an educational diagnostician who runs Multnomah Educational Testing in SW Portland and consults in schools (pre-K-12th) on differentiation and inclusion. Colleen is also the mother of four very diverse children. In that spirit, she is sharing strategies for effective communication with schools and teachers. Learn "big picture" commandments AND specific, do-tomorrow strategies to build productive relationships with your student's teachers, and review options for what to do if communication closes down. Expect a lively presentation full of specifics.

Susan Barton "Symptoms & Solutions: Dyslexia"
March 9, 2012, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
Moyer Theatre, Alex L. Parks Performing Arts Center, Jesuit High School

Meet leading dyslexia expert Susan Barton at a free presentation on the symptoms and solutions of dyslexia. Find out why your child may be struggling and what you can do to help. To learn more about the event and reserve your seat, visit www.thomasedison.eventbrite.com. For more information, contact Kelly Arnold at (503) 896-3606.

Dyslexia Presentation Flyer

2011-2012 ORBIDA Lecture Series
All lectures 7:00-9:00 p.m. at Thomas Edison High School
Members $5; Non-members $10

October 11, 2011: Mathieu Jazbinschek "Technology for People With Dyslexia"
I will be discussing the types of technologies that allow me and other people with dyslexia to function more independently at school, work, and home. Some of the topics discussed will be electronic books, screen readers, speech recognition software, word prediction software, iPads and more.

November 8, 2011: Harry Zweben "Life after High School - Transition Issues"
This lecture will focus on the services available to assist students as they make the transition from high school, accommodations they could use and how to access services and support at college.

January 10, 2012: Cheryl Anthony "Dysgraphia"
What impact does dysgraphia have on students in school? What are the signs of dysgraphia and what are some resources that can help? A review of Handwriting Without Tears, a popular intervention and instructional program used by occupational therapists, tutors, and classroom teachers will be shared.

March 13, 2012: To Be Announced

April 10, 2012: Dr. Aaron Tobacco "Giving In, Giving Up, or Letting Go"
This lecture will provide essential discussions in parenting and philosophy when raising children with ADHD. Given that I myself have 3 sons with ADHD, this comes from a combination of my research, clinical, and personal experiences.

May 8, 2012: ORBIDA Board of Directors "Take a Walk in Their Shoes"
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to have dyslexia? You will be in a safe environment and have the opportunity to explore what a person with dyslexia experiences on a daily basis. Invite family members, teachers, administrators, tutors, medical professionals, school counselors, Special Education teachers

For more information about the speakers: 2011-2012 ORBIDA Lecture Series Flyer