The law requires general education teachers to identify students with disabilities in their classrooms, and although severe cases are easily noted, the majority of teachers are unable to spend much one-on-one time with each student and do not have the experience or background to catch the tell-tale signs of specific learning disabilities. As a result, many students with mild to moderate learning disabilities remain unidentified and struggle through the educational system without aid.

Drawing from her experience as an educational psychologist, general education and special education teacher, Hannell has developed this guide with checklists and action plans to help the harried general education teacher quickly and easily identify children with learning disabilities, ensuring that these children receive the specialized attention and services they need.