What is a Specific Learning Disability (SLD)? SLD is a neurological difference that affects one or more basic psychological processes involved in learning — commonly reading (dyslexia), written expression, or mathematics (dyscalculia).  A student with SLD has achievement in one or more academic areas that is substantially below what would be expected for their age, intelligence, or grade level and that significantly affects educational performance and/or access to the general curriculum. Signs That Should Prompt a Referral Parents and teachers should consider referral when a child shows persistent difficulty despite high-quality instruction and classroom supports.  Common red flags: Reading: slow, inaccurate decoding; poor reading fluency; trouble comprehending text. Writing: illegible or sparse written work, difficulty organizing ideas, spelling errors beyond developmental stage. Math: trouble with number sense, calculations, math facts, or problem-solving. Processing: sl...