Orton Gillingham: Reading Support in Lower and Middle School

08 May Orton Gillingham: Reading Support in Lower and Middle School

In the dynamic landscape of education, one beacon shines brightly for students grappling with reading challenges: Orton Gillingham. At our school, we honor the individuality of each student’s journey, recognizing that every child possesses unique strengths and needs. That’s why we embrace Orton Gillingham as a cornerstone of our approach, particularly in our lower school, where we tailor support to individual students’ abilities rather than confining them to grade-level norms.

But what exactly is Orton Gillingham, and how does it illuminate our classrooms?

Orton Gillingham isn’t merely a teaching method; it’s a guiding light for students navigating the complexities of reading difficulties, including dyslexia. Named after its pioneers, Dr. Samuel Orton and educator Anna Gillingham, this structured, multi-sensory approach addresses the underlying challenges in decoding and encoding words. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution but rather a flexible framework that can be customized to suit each student’s unique needs.

Lisa Johnson, seen in the pictures below, is one of our Orton Gillingham gurus, whose passion for teaching and unwavering dedication to her students illuminate every lesson. Lisa isn’t just a teacher; she’s a guiding force, leading students through the intricacies of language with patience and empathy. With her expertise in Orton Gillingham, she serves as a lighthouse, helping students navigate the complexities of reading instruction and bridging the gap between struggling readers and literacy success.

In our lower school, where the focus is on nurturing each child’s potential, Orton Gillingham plays a pivotal role. We understand that learning to read isn’t a sprint but a journey, and every milestone, no matter how small, is cause for celebration. By grouping students based on their abilities rather than rigid grade levels, we create an environment where every child can shine at their own pace.

Orton Gillingham isn’t just about teaching reading; it’s about empowering students to unlock the boundless opportunities that literacy offers. It’s about instilling confidence in young minds, showing them that with perseverance and support, they can overcome any obstacle in their path.