The Northern Ohio Branch of the International Dyslexia Association (NOBIDA) is excited to announce our upcoming 37th Annual Symposium, Celebrating Differences: Literacy That Empowers Every Learner, scheduled for Friday, November 14, 2025, at Walsh University in Canton, Ohio. This year, we are honored to welcome 3 in-person, keynote presenters.

Meet Dr. Amanda Nickerson

Presentation Highlights: 

Gifted students with dyslexia (2e) often present a paradox in the classroom—demonstrating remarkable intellectual strengths while struggling with foundational literacy skills. Educators can apply insights from the science of reading and gifted education research to support these students in their learning journey. This session will actively review case studies and encourage participants to examine common challenges faced by 2e students and explore practical, evidence-based strategies for providing structured literacy instruction while fostering creativity, critical thinking, and academic acceleration.

Practical Applications:

• Learn about differentiation techniques, assistive technology options, and asset-based approaches that ensure students receive effective literacy support. 
• Gain actionable tools to help 2e students overcome reading difficulties while thriving in their areas of strength.

Meet the Presenter:

Amanda Nickerson, Ed.D., is the Ohio K-12 Literacy Technical Assistance Specialist for the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce. In this role, she develops and coordinates support systems for the implementation of literacy initiatives across schools and districts, providing targeted technical assistance to enhance literacy practices statewide. Amanda also works closely with state literacy specialists to design and deliver professional learning opportunities for educators. With a diverse background that includes roles as a literacy consultant, classroom teacher, Title I specialist, gifted intervention specialist, peer coach, and adjunct instructor, Amanda brings a wealth of experience to her work. Her research interests focus on the intersection of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), the science of reading, and gifted education, with a particular passion for supporting twice-exceptional learners.

Join Us! 

Learn from this speaker with NOBIDA, take part in our raffle, and find insightful resources from like-minded community partners at our 37th Annual Symposium on Friday, November 14, 2025, at Walsh University in Canton, Ohio.

Register Today!