Letter from LDA-IA President Honora Wall
If you want to conquer fear, do not sit home and think about it. Go out and get busy." - Dale Carnegie
There are many things to be fearful of these days, like changes to public school funding, state and national politics and policy changes, services for students with disabilities, and more. At LDA-Iowa, we're not sitting at home thinking about these issues; we're out in the field, and we're busy!
You may have found us at Capitol Day in Des Moines, spreading awareness among our political leaders. You might have stopped by one of our community event tables, at the ASK conference, the Urbandale Transition Fair, or William Penn University's Disabilities Fair (to name just a few!). Maybe you spotted board members attending and presenting at LDA of America's national conference in St. Louis, or perhaps you caught any one of our free online webinars. You could have joined one of our virtual board meetings, too-- you are always welcome! Whew! LDA-Iowa is definitely busy. In fact, there's only one thing missing in this busy schedule, and that's you. Please accept this invitation to join us. Make your voice heard. Act for positive changes in your community. Be a part of LDA-Iowa, and invite a friend to come along!
What does it mean to be part of the LDA-Iowa community? That's up to you. We have plenty of options to choose from-- you might join a webinar or a board meeting; you might volunteer at a community event table; you might share this newsletter with a colleague or your local school; you might like and share one of our social media posts; you might even join us at LDACON27, in Las Vegas! Seriously, don't miss that one. However you choose to be involved, please know, we need you. Your support, interest, concerns, and feedback make LDA-Iowa strong. Together, we can join our voices and make Iowa a beacon for how to best support students and families navigating learning disabilities. On behalf of the board of LDA-Iowa, I encourage you to make this the year you get out and get busy!
Mental Illness in Children
When it comes to children’s mental health, it is easier to see when a child is hurt on the outside than when they are hurting on the inside. Many children and teens do not have the words to explain what they are feeling, and some may show their struggles through changes in behavior or risky choices. Because of shame, misunderstanding, or fear of being judged, many children do not get the help they need.
There are some common myths and truths about children’s mental health. When families, caregivers, and schools work together to clear up these misunderstandings, it becomes easier to recognize when a child needs help and make sure they get the right support.
Accommodations and Modifications Webinar Series - Coming This Fall!
Mark your calendars for our next free webinar series: "Interventions, Accommodations and Modifications: Promoting Access and Opportunity for All."
Honoring Carol Legg Zeigler
Carol Legg Zeigler wore many hats, but none as important to us as that of her role with LDA-Iowa. Carol was a long-time member and Board of Directors member. We remember Carol for her intelligence, insightfulness, compassion and professionalism. Thank you to Carol and the many other advocates who came before and after you. LDA-Iowa will continue to work to support, educate and advocate for those impacted by learning disabilities. You can read more about Carol's remarkable life here.
Remembering Dr. Richard and Verlee Owens
Next month, we'll pause to honor and celebrate the lives of Verlee and Richard Owens, two cherished former board members whose dedication helped shape our vision and strengthen our mission. Their leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment to individuals with learning disabilities left a lasting imprint on our organization. As we reflect on their contributions, we carry forward the values they championed and the spirit of service they embodied. Their legacy continues to inspire our work every day.
What has LDA-Iowa been up to?
2026 has been a busy year so far! In addition to exhibiting at the Iowa Capitol and at several community events, we are busy creating awareness and information about learning disabilities through our current and future projects.
Board meetings were held in January and April. The next meeting will be held on July 18th - you're welcome to join us! Check our social media and website for the Zoom link.
We will have an exhibit table at the Iowa Science of Reading Summit in June and the Make Your Mark Conference in September. Maybe we'll see you there!
The information provided in this newsletter is believed to be correct at the time it was included. However, the information is subject to change based on the availability of new research, new interpretations and other developments in the field. LDA-Iowa does not endorse, recommend or make representations with respect to the research, services, programs, medications, products or treatments referenced. The material provided is designed for educational and informational purposes only
