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Is dePaul Right for Your Child?

If you have more questions than answers, you’re not alone, and you’re in the right place.

We know the path to dePaul often begins with frustration. Maybe reading has become a daily battle. Maybe your child is bright, curious, and creative, but falling behind. Maybe you’ve tried tutoring, IEP meetings, and even testing, but still don’t have answers. Don't worry—we're here to help.

The dePaul School for Dyslexia is designed for students who struggle with language-based learning differences - especially dyslexia - and who need explicit, structured, multisensory instruction to succeed. You do not need a formal diagnosis to apply.

Ideal Candidates for dePaul

 

Ideal Candidates for dePaul

Students who benefit most from our program typically:

✅ Have average to above-average intelligence

✅ Struggle with decoding, reading fluency, spelling, writing, or comprehension

✅ May have been diagnosed (or suspected) with dyslexia, dysgraphia, or a language-based learning difference

✅ Feel frustrated, anxious, or disengaged in their current school environment

✅ Require a more personalized, structured, and supportive academic setting

✅ Thrive in small group instruction with clear routines and consistent expectations

For students in Grade 3 or above, we need:

✅ A formal diagnosis (required for admission, not application)

✅ Physician Documentation

 

How We Determine Fit

We screen all applicants internally to determine if our program is a good fit.

Every applicant goes through a personalized intake process, including:

  • Admissions interview with the family
  • Review of records and work samples
  • Student screening for decoding, reading fluency, comprehension, and writing
  • Collaborative team review to determine readiness and placement


This helps us ensure your child's success in our program - and helps you understand how we’ll support their growth.

If your child is struggling with reading, spelling, or written expression, we encourage you to reach out.

 

Students We May Not Be Equipped to Serve

While we support social-emotional growth and executive functioning, dePaul is not a behavioral, therapeutic, or mental health program.

We are not equipped to support students with:

✖️ Primary diagnoses of ADHD (without co-occurring dyslexia)

✖️ Autism Spectrum Disorder

✖️ Significant behavioral or emotional regulation challenges

✖️ Intellectual disabilities or global developmental delays

If you feel that dePaul may not be the best fit for your child, know that we are happy to help you connect with other programs or professionals better suited to these needs.