At the 61st Annual Conference of the International Dyslexia Association (IDA) in Phoenix, Arizona, Houstonian Jessica Dupiche received the 2010 Remy Johnston Award. Following an introduction by Jim Carter, president of the Houston Branch of IDA, the award was presented by IDA Vice President Eric Tridas, M.D. The award is given to an individual who serves as a role model for others, refuses to be limited by the challenges of having a learning difference, strives for excellence, and enriches the lives of others.

 

Jessica was identified as having dyslexia in elementary school and worked diligently to compensate for her academic difficulties. She showed persistence and strength of character while acknowledging that asking for help was sometimes embarrassing and that she still dislikes reading aloud. In high school, Jessica became a PAL (Peer Assisted Leader) in her school. Jessica now attends Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas, and wants to become a teacher.

 

Jessica was nominated by Marion Brennan, a dyslexia teacher with Fort Bend Independent School district, who began working with Jessica in sixth grade. Ms. Brennan has attended professional development classes at Neuhaus.

 

Read more about Remy Johnston and the award founded in his memory on the IDA website.