Academic Coach Melissa W. just finished up a great year working with Thomas, a Kindergartener who began school only able to identify three letters and can now read at a Level B, or as an "Early Emergent Reader." Using an Orton Gillingham approach, Melissa used multi-sensory materials to implement the Preventing Academic Failure (PAF) early intervention program. Through this method, Melissa could offer Thomas the best support needed to help him graduate Kindergarten on time and move on to 1st grade. At first, Melissa noted that Thomas did not have an interest in books and always wanted to do something else when she broached the subject. By the end of the year, he showed more excitement for their sessions, particularly because he can now understand what he is reading and is not as frustrated. Because Thomas is a younger student, Melissa always made sure to spend between 10-30 minutes after each session with Thomas' mom, Rachel. They would review his progress, and Melissa would offer ideas for what the family can do at home. Rachel was very appreciative, expressing her gratitude at times with big hugs for Melissa. Thomas' dad shared that he read all of the lesson summaries Melissa wrote and was very impressed and grateful for the growth Thomas made in just a year. Melissa will continue working with Thomas through the summer and is proud to see her young student learn to read, learn to enjoy reading, and through that experience, gain newfound confidence and valuable skills to approach the classroom.

Voices Blog: Coaches’ Words