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Seen and Supported: A Teacher’s Journey Through Dyslexia, Advocacy, and Authentic Belonging
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What happens when a student with undiagnosed dyslexia and deafness grows up to become the kind of teacher who makes every child feel seen, supported, and celebrated?
In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode of The Fully Mindful, host Melissa Chureau sits down with second-grade teacher and literacy advocate Jill Rebholz to talk about what it means to truly support kids with learning differences—not just on paper, but in real life.
Jill shares her personal story of navigating school in the 1970s without a diagnosis, the powerful role of mentors and family in shaping her path, and how her own neurodivergence informs the way she shows up for students today. With honesty, humor, and deep wisdom, she talks about:
- Living with dyslexia and unilateral deafness in a world that didn’t yet have the language for either
- The impact of early advocacy—and missed diagnoses
- How she brings compassion, humor, and honesty into the classroom
- Creating safe, empowering spaces like her “Lunch Bunch” for dyslexic students
- Why labels can be both limiting and liberating
- How to advocate for your child with learning differences
- What she hopes to see shift in education—and what’s already giving her hope
Whether you’re a parent, educator, or someone who's ever felt like you learn differently, this episode offers validation, insight, and a deep reminder that intelligence and worth aren’t measured by grades or test scores.
Because when kids are believed in, everything changes.
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Chapters
1. Introduction to Fully Mindful Podcast (00:00:00)
2. Jill's Early Struggles in School (00:01:33)
3. Advocating Through Childhood Challenges (00:06:12)
4. Turning Point: Fifth Grade and Diagnosis (00:09:35)
5. Parental Support and Compassionate Guidance (00:14:07)
6. Teaching with Authenticity and Vulnerability (00:20:01)
7. The Dyslexia Lunch Bunch Initiative (00:25:09)
8. Systemic Challenges in Education (00:33:08)
9. Personal Connection in Teaching (00:42:37)
10. Hope for the Future (00:48:21)
11. Advice for Parents and Closing Thoughts (00:53:31)
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