History

Initially established as two separate Tennessee Branches of the Orton Dyslexia Society: the leaders of the East Tennessee Branch and the West Tennessee Branch united these entities in 1998, thus becoming the Tennessee Branch of the International Dyslexia Association- TN IDA (re: IDA Executive Board Action, June 1998).

Since 1989, TN IDA members have fostered research and effective teaching methods for the learning disabled. Branch members have promoted the mission of the organization through sponsorship of the Knoxville Road Race, parent support group meetings, appearances on local affiliates of the national television stations and radio stations. In 1997, the Branch co-sponsored "Unlocking the Potential," the IDA Southeast Service Area Conference in Chattanooga in conjunction with Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Virginia. Co-sponsorship of previous Service Area meetings have also occurred in North Carolina and South Carolina.

TN IDA has received an impressive level of corporate and charitable support from EXCEL, Junior League, Wampler's Farm Sausage, Auto Zone, SunTrust Bank, Memorial Hospital, McKee Foods, among others. We have established educational partnerships with organizations such as Slingerland Institute, Wilson Language Training, public and private schools and numerous institutions of higher education across the state. The Branch continues to provide printed and video resources, teacher-training scholarships and individual support to educators, public libraries, parents, students and an array of professionals serving residents of Tennessee.

TN IDA is notable in its ability to unify the IDA membership into one state-wide Branch, with all individuals looking forward to a new era of leadership, service, and dedication to a common cause. Over the past twelve years, countless individuals have made significant contributions to this organization and as fine representatives of "The Volunteer State," the Branch will continue this effort.