Unlocking Literacy: A Dyslexia Exploration. Chapter 20 of Overcoming Dyslexia

Greetings, fellow educators, specialists, and families! Today, I'm excited to delve into Chapter 20 of "Overcoming Dyslexia," a pivotal chapter that sheds light on a model that works: Michelle's program. As I progress through my coursework to become a dyslexia specialist or CALT, this chapter resonates deeply with my 17 years of experience as a dedicated special educator and interventionist.

Chapter 20:

Michelle's Program. A Model that Works.

The Three Pillars of Michelle's Program

Michelle's program embodies three core goals, each crucial to her success:

1. Proven Intervention: Michelle's program prioritizes evidence-based reading intervention, delivered with intensity by knowledgeable teachers.

2. Integration: It seamlessly integrates reading intervention with her regular classroom work, ensuring cohesion and support across all learning environments.

3. Continuous Monitoring: Michelle's reading progress is consistently monitored, allowing for timely adjustments and personalized support.

The Wilson Reading Program: A Beacon of Professional Development

One highlight of Michelle's program is the Wilson Reading Program, renowned for its intensive professional development for teachers. With 90 minutes of daily reading and language arts in small groups, supplemented by resource instruction and integrated spelling and writing activities, Michelle receives comprehensive support tailored to her needs.

Empowering Home Reading Practices

Michelle's home reading routine reinforces her classroom learning through three key practices: reading aloud to parents, silent reading for pleasure, and engaging with supplementary materials relevant to school assignments. Resources like Typing Instructor for Kids further enhance her literacy skills.

Essentials of Successful Intervention

Chapter 20 emphasizes crucial elements for successful reading intervention:

• Early Identification: Early screening and diagnosis are paramount for timely intervention.

• Intense Instruction: Intensive, high-quality instruction delivered with sufficient duration is essential.

• Qualified Teachers and Evidence-Based Programs: Ensuring qualified teachers and evidence-based reading programs are non-negotiables for effective intervention.

A Call to Action:

Let's heed the lessons from Michelle's program and take action to support struggling readers. Here's how you can make a difference:

1. Advocate for Early Screening: Ensure children are screened for dyslexia in kindergarten or first grade.

2. Maximize Instructional Time: Provide frequent, high-intensity sessions led by qualified teachers.

3. Demand Evidence-Based Programs: Insist on evidence-based reading programs that have been proven effective.

Together, let's empower every child with dyslexia to overcome reading challenges and unlock their full potential. By implementing evidence-based strategies and fostering a supportive learning environment, we can pave the way for success.

Here's to transforming lives through literacy!