We utilize the Wilson Reading System (WRS), which is a research-based program designed for students who struggle with reading and spelling.  WRS is now used in school districts throughout the country, to teach students word structure and language through a carefully sequenced, 12-step program.  

    This system helps them master reading and spelling in a structured process and learn cumulatively and systematically. It has been used successfully with students who have been unable to learn spelling and/or reading through traditional basal methods, whole-language or phonics programs.

    WRS uses a unique “sound tapping” system early in the program to help the student learn to differentiate the phonemes (speech sounds) in a word. This technique is used for both segmenting and blending sounds.

    Fluency and comprehension are emphasized from the beginning. The program is comprehensive; thus it can follow students from one grade to the next, as needed. Assessments, built into the program, track student progress and success.

    Bonnie O’Shields, the Executive Director of The Literacy & Learning Center , is currently the only certified Wilson Trainer in the state.

Fall News Release 

October 5, 2007 - The Literacy and Learning Center, Inc. in Easley has just been named a Partner with the Wilson Language Training, Inc. in Oxford, MA.  This partnership will allow The Literacy and Learning Center to host Wilson Reading System trainings for the teaching community in our area.  These trainings will include hands-on workshops, informational seminars, and Wilson certification programs.  

Bonnie O’Shields, the Executive Director of The Literacy and Learning Center, has been a certified Wilson trainer for several years and has trained teachers nationwide on the implementation of the Wilson Reading System in the classroom.  “It is exciting to be able to offer this training to teachers in our state and help struggling readers in our area.” commented O’Shields.  

The Literacy and Learning Center is currently only one of 12 partners with Wilson Language Training nationwide.  

“Reading isn’t just an enjoyable pastime.  It’s an absolute necessity.” said O’Shields.  Literacy is of course required for a secure and productive future in today’s global economy, but it’s also essential for a life rich with possibilities and personal fulfillment.  

Wilson Language Training has created literacy curricula and strategies that would achieve the reading and spelling results educators, parents and society so urgently seek.  

The staff at The Literacy and Learning Center works with students who are struggling with reading concepts and spelling rules.  Some of these students have dyslexia, which is a specific reading disability, and other students just need a little help to “catch-up”.  They utilize multi-sensory teaching techniques based on the Orton-Gillingham approach to reading bringing the hands, eyes, ears, and voice together to help learners understand and internalize what is taught.  

For more information, please feel free to contact Bonnie O’Shields at The Literacy and Learning Center.  
Contact:
Bonnie O’Shields – Executive Director – The Literacy and Learning Center
855-0122 – office
630-2957 – cell
855-6187 – home