Helping Students with

Learning Disabilities
Succeed
Students with learning
disabilities (LD) are
intelligent, creative thinkers.
These students are highly
capable of succeeding in life.
However, without proper
supports in place, they are
at-risk for a number of
negative outcomes in
adulthood. Educators must
be well-equipped to support
these students and promote
their success.

Secondary students with LD are more likely to...

struggle in high school and in the transition out of high
school than their peers
struggle with reading, writing, math, and/or social and
emotional issues
report low self-esteem and self-confidence

How can educators promote student success?

Research shows that early identification is a critical supporting
factor for students. Educators should know how to refer
students for screenings and evaluations.
Involve students as much as possible in IEP and 504 plan
meetings. In particular, students should be very involved in
planning for their transition out of high school.
Provide students with opportunities to build social-emotional
skills and competencies.
Support students in becoming involved in extracurricular
activities that help them to build self-esteem and connect with
peers.
Provide students with information regarding their LD and help
them to understand their rights and how to advocate for
themselves.

Source: The National Center for Learning Disabilities (2015). Student voices: A study of young
adults with learning and attention issues (Executive Summary).
https://www.ncld.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Student-Voices-Executive-
Summary.pdf