Wilson Reading System® Credentials

Springer has used Wilson® programs for many years finding them to be the most effective structured literacy programs for struggling readers. The approach is used in Springer’s Lower School and Middle School. Under the leadership of the Dean of Academics Diane Houghton, all Springer teachers have been trained to use the Wilson Reading System and now six teachers are Wilson® Dyslexia Practitioners. Springer is in the process of applying to become a Wilson® Accredited Training Partner. Springer uses intense Wilson®, Just Words® and Fundations®. The impact of Fundations®, Just Words®, and Wilson Reading System® programs has shown significant improvements in all areas of reading.

Becoming a credentialed Wilson Dyslexia® Practitioner is a rigorous process for teachers with bachelor’s degrees or higher. Each teacher must complete a comprehensive six-step course for instructing non-responsive readers, be observed several times by a Wilson® Credentialed Trainer, demonstrate mastery of Wilson® lesson plan procedures, and demonstrate an understanding of language concepts through accurate teaching with multisensory procedures among other requirements. The credentialing is renewed every five years so when families work with a credentialed practitioner, they know that their teacher or tutor is meeting the highest standards for instruction and is current with their knowledge of implementing Wilson® programs.

Reading Specialist Cari Kelly, who has taught at Springer for nearly twenty years, has earned the highest distinction available: Wilson® Credentialed Trainer, Therapist and Practitioner. This means she has successfully completed the WRS Trainer Development internship earning the W.C.T. credential, in addition to her previously earned W.D.T. credential. As a trainer she is highly qualified to supervise individuals in WRS professional learning programs that prepare these individuals to teach students with a language‐based learning disability, such as dyslexia. She is also qualified to teach the WRS Advanced Strategies For MSL Instruction Course for already WRS Level I certified teachers.

The Springer Learning Center is a resource for all schools in the region with teachers working to earn Wilson® credentials or simply training to use the curriculum. Cari Kelly is scheduled to lead three of Springer’s seven upcoming professional learning events in 2024. More information about these workshops can be found at Springer-LD.org/professional-programs.