Darlene Bush recalls her daughter failing to even recognize her own name during prekindergarten. By the end of first grade, Ella was lagging academically, which prompted Bush to enroll her in The 3D School in Petal—one of Mississippi’s approved special-purpose schools for learners with dyslexia.
Over the course of two years, Ella began to read confidently and rebuild her self-esteem. When she returned to public school in fifth grade, she earned an English Language Arts award, demonstrating to her mother the immense power of targeted support.
For families like the Bushes, the availability of a state scholarship makes high-quality dyslexia therapy financially attainable. Their experience highlights a growing debate in the legislature: should more parents be permitted to steer public education funds toward the schools or programs they believe are most effective?
Understanding Dyslexia & Mississippi’s Strategy
What Is Dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a neurobiological learning disability that disrupts reading, spelling, and writing. It ranks among the most common learning disorders, with estimates suggesting that up to one in five individuals show signs of it.
Early Screening & Teacher Training
Mississippi has taken an early lead in dyslexia policy by requiring universal screening for all kindergarten and first-grade students, offering continuous professional development for teachers, and permitting parents to use state scholarships for approved private or specialized instruction.
The state also boasts a high number of Certified Academic Language Therapists—experts in dyslexia intervention—though critics note they are rarely integrated into public school systems.
The Gap in Public Schools
According to the 2024–25 state data, 154 educators hold a dyslexia license endorsement, but only 57 serve as dyslexia therapists in public schools. Meanwhile, the Academic Language Therapy Association reports 378 licensed therapists statewide—a discrepancy that underscores how many work privately.
Dr. Cena Hollifield, a registered dyslexia therapist and founder of The 3D School, argues that because public schools lack sufficient therapists, many parents must bear out-of-pocket costs or pursue tuition at specialized institutions.
Financial Barriers & the Role of the State Scholarship
High Costs of Dyslexia Therapy
Cost remains a major barrier for many families in Mississippi—including the Bushes. Ella’s tuition at The 3D School was approximately $900 per month. Thanks to the state scholarship, Bush paid only half of that.
The Dyslexia Therapy Scholarship for Students with Dyslexia allows eligible K–12 students to use state funding to attend either a public school with a licensed dyslexia therapist or an approved special-purpose nonpublic school.
This scholarship functions like a voucher, offering up to the state and local per-student funding amount for a school year and, unlike many programs, it is uncapped—meaning every qualified applicant can receive funding.
According to Hollifield, the scholarship has expanded access to specialized instruction.
“The law passed in 2012 was revolutionary … if your child has a diagnosis of dyslexia, the state money goes to the special-purpose school to supplement tuition. It’s not enough to completely pay for it, but it certainly makes it affordable,” she explained.
Approved Schools & Geographic Limitations
As of 2025, the Mississippi Department of Education authorizes five schools to accept students under this scholarship:
- Magnolia Speech School (Madison) and The Canopy School (Ridgeland), serving the Jackson metro area
- The 3D School (Petal) and Innova Prep (Hattiesburg), serving the Pine Belt
- Lighthouse Academy (Ocean Springs), serving the Gulf Coast
However, large regions—such as the Delta and northeast Mississippi—lack nearby MDE-approved special-purpose schools. Families in those areas may be forced to endure long commutes.
Advocacy, Policy & Personal Testimonies
A Personal Stake in Lawmaking
Mississippi House Education Committee Chair Rob Roberson says the issue resonates on a personal level:
“I’ve had two children with dyslexia … when we got the help we needed, we saw really good outcomes.”
He notes that one of his teenagers attended a school offering dyslexia services and is now performing at A/B student levels, reinforcing his belief that parents should have greater control over educational funding.
Life-Changing Impact
For Bush, the scholarship and access to a specialized school gave her daughter the opportunity to flourish:
“If I had to go back and do it all again, I would not hesitate one bit. It was life-changing, really.”
Conclusion
Mississippi’s dyslexia initiatives demonstrate how targeted screening, teacher training, and flexible scholarship funding can transform educational outcomes for students with learning disabilities. Despite gaps in therapist availability and geographic access, the Dyslexia Therapy Scholarship offers a lifeline to families seeking specialized instruction. As debates continue at the state legislature, the stories of students like Ella offer compelling evidence that when properly supported, children with dyslexia can not only catch up—but thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What criteria must students meet to qualify for the Dyslexia Therapy Scholarship?
Students in grades K–12 must have a formal diagnosis of dyslexia and apply through the state’s program. Once approved, they may use the funds toward tuition at an approved public or special-purpose school.
Does the scholarship cover the full cost of tuition?
No — the scholarship provides up to the state and local per-pupil funding amount, which may not cover full tuition. However, it is uncapped, ensuring that every eligible applicant receives assistance.
What options exist if a student lives far from an approved school?
Families residing in regions without nearby approved schools may face long transportation challenges. They may need to travel extensive distances or pursue private therapy options, underscoring the need for expansion of available schools.
