Research and Insights

Data-driven research and insights helping us understand challenges, inform decisions, and create meaningful impact.

Our Approach to Research

Dr. Saashya Rodrigo, NCLD’s Associate Director of Research and Principal Researcher, on our approach to conducting and applying critical research on learning disabilities and our community.

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This section includes resources related to the State of LD: Transition to Adulthood report, offering insights and content that highlight its key themes and findings.

Centering Well-being in the Transition to Adulthood

Well-being refers to an overall sense of thriving and personal agency across various areas of…

The Critical Role of Mental Health Services for Individuals with LD

People with disabilities experience mental distress almost five times more often than those without disabilities*.…

The Power of Supportive Relationships for Students with LD

“Supportive relationships” refer to relationships students have with peers, teachers, and the broader school community…

LESSONS FROM EDUCATORS

National Data & Federal Snapshots

A snapshot of NAEP Reading Assessment data and student proficiency as well as pragmatic solutions to build student success.

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A snapshot of NAEP Math Assessment data and student proficiency as well as pragmatic solutions to build student success.

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Federal Data Presented by State

A comprehensive breakdown of NAEP scores in Reading and Math per State. These snapshots also include insights into key areas such as graduation rates, reading and math proficiency, and demographic information.

Download your own state’s SLD State Snapshot (PDF) by either clicking on your state below, or select your state from the dropdown menu.


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

White Papers + Other Notable Research

NCLD is a founding member of the GRAD Partnership, established in 2022 with the shared commitment to working in collaboration with leading education organizations to maximize our collective impact on students’ ability to succeed in school.

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This paper examines the federally permissible methods used to determine eligibility for special education under the category of specific learning disability (SLD). While the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) has not changed since 2004, new research has advanced understanding of learning disabilities and the effectiveness of different identification approaches. Each allowable method—outlined under IDEA—varies in its research base, timeliness in supporting evaluation and intervention, and ability to identify students’ specific skill needs.

The paper explores:

  • The research behind each federally allowable method of SLD identification and key implications for practice
  • How states and districts implement these methods
  • Expert and advocate perspectives on best practices for identifying students with SLD

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