The LaFetra College of Education Collaborative recently hosted a powerful screening of Left Behind, a documentary that illuminates the challenges faced by children with dyslexia and the families and educators who support them. After recognizing the lack of resources available to children with dyslexia, filmmaker Anna Toomey directed Left Behind, an impactful film that continues to inspire meaningful conversations about advocacy, equity, and education.
“It was an honor to screen the film for the University of La Verne and IDA of California. This film is so deeply personal to me, and my hope is that it can be seen far and wide so we can collectively make a difference in the lives of millions of children.” – Anna Toomey, Director
We were thrilled to welcome Anna Toomey, who joined us virtually from New York for a live Q&A session following the screening. Her insights added tremendous value as she shared updates about the families and children featured in the film and discussed her ongoing advocacy work. Anna Toomey encouraged attendees to join the Left Behind Impact Campaign, which is building a nationwide network of advocates working to create change in local schools.
This special event also featured a panel discussion with Joan Sutter and Melanie Jones-Moreno, ULV Adjunct Faculty from our Dyslexia Teacher Training Program (DTTP) and Dyslexia Specialists at West Covina Unified School District; Dr. Madeleine Mejia from the International Dyslexia Association (IDA); and Tricia Xaviar, Vice President of IDA Los Angeles. Each shared personal experiences and reflections on the film’s themes.
We are deeply grateful to everyone who attended, contributed, and helped make this gathering a space for learning, connection, and community building.
“It was such a powerful experience to be in community with educators, parents, and advocates for children with neurodiverse learning needs. Many participants are determined to bring the film to their own communities, driven by the urgent need for schools to equip all educators with the training and tools necessary to identify and support every child’s journey to literacy.”
– Marga Madhuri, Program Chair, Dyslexia Teaching Training Program and Board Member, International Dyslexia Association Los Angeles Branch
Special thanks to the Los Angeles Branch of the International Dyslexia Association for their partnership and continued dedication to raising awareness and supporting the dyslexia community.
Together, we continue to raise awareness and strengthen our shared commitment to inclusive education.
The University of La Verne is proud to champion dyslexia awareness and advocacy through our Dyslexia Teacher Training Program, a one-year practicum-based course grounded in the Orton-Gillingham (OG) approach. This program equips educators with the tools and strategies needed to effectively support students with dyslexia.
