By Friendswood ISD Communication Department
On May 2, 2025, the Friendswood ISD Education Foundation (FEF) celebrated a transformational gift of $84,079.90 to the Friendswood ISD Special Education Department in support of its dyslexia supports & services. This significant investment was made possible through the generosity of longtime district supporters Robin and Craig Hall, whose commitment to educational excellence continues to make a lasting impact across the district.
The Halls were especially passionate about supporting dyslexia intervention, as the cause hits close to home—they understand the challenges firsthand, having walked alongside their own daughters through their dyslexia journey. Their gift reflects both a personal mission and a broader desire to ensure all students have the resources they need to thrive.
The funds are already at work building upon our existing dyslexia intervention services, allowing us to enhance support and explore innovative tools that we could not implement without this gift. Currently, FISD serves approximately 710 students identified with dyslexia, with around 230 of those receiving direct intervention through special education services.
With this donation, the Special Education Department will be able to purchase and implement a variety of high-impact resources, including:
- District license for TextHelp, which supports students through phonetic word prediction, speech-to-text, and text-to-speech tools
- District license for Kami for enhanced digital accessibility and integration with Google, Chromebooks, Canvas, and more
- 100 additional seats for Read Live, a web-based intervention platform that addresses all five essential components of reading comprehension: fluency, vocabulary, phonics, phonemic awareness, and comprehension. This will enhance small groups and station rotation in intervention classes.
- 90 Scanmarker Reader pens, providing students with increased reading independence and decoding support
- 10 dyslexia keyboards, iPads, and charging towers to increase accessibility to assistive technologies across secondary campuses
- Customized staff and parent training and education, designed to deepen understanding and support for dyslexic learners both in the classroom and at home
“Our dyslexia team is dedicated to providing every student with the tools and strategies they need to succeed,” said a representative from the Special Education Department. “This gift allows us to dramatically expand our reach and offer cutting-edge resources that promote independence, confidence, and literacy growth.”
FEF, in partnership with donors like Robin and Craig Hall, continues to champion innovative learning opportunities that enrich the lives of both students and educators. This dyslexia initiative reflects FEF’s mission to invest in programs that inspire engagement, inclusion, and success for all learners.
For more information about the Friendswood Education Foundation or to learn how to support its mission, please visit fef.myfisd.com or contact EducationFoundation@fisdk12.net.
