When the credits rolled on the Left Behind virtual screening last week, one thing was clear: stories have the power to inspire action.
From the live event at the MLK Theatre in Washington, D.C., to the nationwide virtual screening sponsored exclusively by Learning Ally, this award-winning documentary has sparked vital conversations about dyslexia, access, and educational equity.
Nearly 5,400 educators, parents, and advocates joined the event, adding their voices to a growing community determined to ensure that no child with dyslexia is left behind.
A Shared Mission for Dyslexia Equity
Learning Ally’s sponsorship of Left Behind reflects our ongoing commitment to the 1 in 5 students who struggle with dyslexia and related reading difficulties.
Like the families and educators featured in the film, we’re working to create systemic change. Every day, Learning Ally equips schools with evidence-based tools, structured literacy training, and human-read audiobooks that level the playing field for all learners.
“Stories like Left Behind remind us that when parents and educators unite around a shared purpose, real change happens,” said Howard Bell III, CEO of Learning Ally. “We’re honored to bring this story to a national audience and inspire continued action for students who learn differently.”
Together, we’re amplifying one powerful truth: literacy is essential for every child’s future.
Highlights from the Screenings
Live Event – October 27 at the MLK Theatre
Educators, administrators, parents, and students filled the historic MLK Theatre to experience Left Behind on the big screen. Following this, a thought-provoking panel examined what schools can do to better support students with reading differences.
Virtual Screening – October 24 to November 1
The virtual screening brought this powerful story into homes and classrooms across the nation.
Viewers shared reflections using #LeftBehindFilm and #LearningAlly, building a nationwide dialogue about dyslexia and education equity.
“To witness these mothers go through extreme lengths for basic educational support was truly heartbreaking. Driven to break the cycle of poverty, their fight can ultimately benefit all students, highlighting a profound educational injustice.” – Anonymous Donor
Why Films Like Left Behind Matter
Awareness is the first step toward change.
Documentaries like Left Behind remind us that dyslexia isn’t a limitation—it’s a call to reimagine how we teach reading and support diverse learners.
Research indicates that early, structured literacy instruction and access to audiobooks can significantly enhance reading comprehension and confidence in students with dyslexia (International Dyslexia Association; Best, 2020).
By connecting evidence with empathy, we can ensure that every student has the opportunity to thrive.
Keep the Momentum Going
If you missed the screening, you can still get involved:
- Watch the trailer and learn more about the documentary
- Explore Learning Ally’s dyslexia resources for awareness, educator training, and literacy support.
- Download Dyslexia Decoded: Distinguishing Signs and Symptoms to help educators and families:
- Recognize early signs of dyslexia
- Strengthen collaboration between home and school
- Empower every student to become a confident reader
Together, we can change the story for students with dyslexia—one reader, one teacher, and one classroom at a time.