Payton II struggled with severe dyslexia throughout his childhood. In the early 2000s, public school systems frequently misdiagnosed learning differences as behavioral issues or lack of effort. Monique recognized the symptoms early, advocating fiercely for tailored tutoring and specialized testing.
Her early intervention shaped Payton II’s outlook. In 2022, the NBA honored him with the Bob Lanier Community Assist Award for establishing the GPII Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to screening children for dyslexia and funding learning assistance programs.
During public speaking events and charity panels, Payton II regularly brings Monique forward to address parents. She speaks candidly about the frustration of securing school accommodations and the patience required to support a child who processes language differently. Her lived experience has turned their shared hurdle into a community roadmap for thousands of families across the Bay Area and Pacific Northwest.
