Literacy Solutions LLC

Vision Statement:

Literacy Solutions LLC aims to serve as a beacon of hope and empowerment for students with learning needs and differences. Guided by faith and fueled by a passion for literacy, we create joyful and transformative learning experiences. Through collaborative partnerships and evidence-based practices, we unlock each student's unique potential, fostering a love of learning that illuminates their path to success.

Values:

• Faith in Action: Our Christian faith is the foundation of all we do. We believe that every student deserves the opportunity to thrive, and by equipping them with strong literacy skills, we are answering a call to serve. We are dedicated to empowering individuals to engage with the world in ways that bring light, understanding, and contribute to the common good. 

• Neurodiversity: We celebrate the diverse strengths and perspectives that come with neurological differences, recognizing the unique gifts they bring to our learning community.

• Parental Partnership: We honor the invaluable insights and knowledge that parents have about their children and are committed to fostering a strong partnership between parents and our Literacy Solutions Specialists/Teachers.

• Respect for Teacher Expertise: We value the knowledge and professionalism of our highly trained and qualified Literacy Solutions Specialists/Teachers, recognizing their education and dedication to student success.

• Respect for Schools: We believe in building upon the foundation established in your child's school. Literacy Solutions LLC is dedicated to providing supplemental literacy support that reinforces and enhances the learning already taking place. We are here to be a positive and supportive extension in your child's educational journey.

• Evidence-Based Practices: We are committed to utilizing evidence-based practices grounded in the science of reading, writing, language, and learning to ensure that our interventions are effective and aligned with current research.

Philosophies and Defining Concepts:

The Science of Reading:

At Literacy Solutions LLC, our practices are grounded in the science of reading, a vast and evolving body of knowledge that encompasses research from various disciplines, including cognitive psychology, linguistics, neuroscience, and education (International Literacy Association, 2024). The International Literacy Association (2024) defines the science of reading as "the converging evidence from many studies on how children learn to read and how they can be best taught." This research base informs our understanding of the complex cognitive processes involved in reading, writing, language, and learning, guiding our instructional approaches and interventions.

We recognize the significant role that structured literacy and multisensory pedagogy play in effective literacy intervention. Structured literacy provides a systematic and explicit approach to teaching foundational literacy skills (Moats & Tolman, 2019), while multisensory techniques engage multiple senses to enhance learning and memory (Sousa, 2017). These approaches are particularly beneficial for students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences.

Dyslexia:

Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that is neurobiological in origin. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities. These difficulties typically result from a deficit in the phonological component of language that is often unexpected in relation to other cognitive abilities and the provision of effective classroom instruction (International Dyslexia Association, 2023).

Dysgraphia:

Dysgraphia is a learning disability that affects writing abilities. It can manifest as difficulties with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas in writing (Understood for Learning & Attention Issues, n.d.). Students with dysgraphia may have trouble forming letters, spacing words, and putting their thoughts on paper. This can impact their ability to express themselves effectively in writing and can also affect their performance in other academic areas.

ADHD:

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Individuals with ADHD may have difficulty focusing, staying organized, managing impulses, and regulating their activity levels. This can affect their academic performance, social interactions, and overall well-being.

Other Learning Needs:

It is important to recognize that various other factors, beyond dyslexia, dysgraphia, and ADHD, can also produce needs for which this clinic may be well suited to address. These may include:

• English Learners (ELs): Students who are learning English as a second language may face unique challenges in literacy development. This includes navigating the complexities of English grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation while simultaneously developing literacy skills in their native language. It is crucial to honor and support ELs' bilingualism, recognizing the cognitive benefits and cultural richness it brings to the learning environment (García et al., 2017).

• Specific Learning Disabilities (SLDs) in Math, Writing, or Other Areas: Students may have difficulties with specific skills or processes related to math, writing, or other academic areas (National Center for Learning Disabilities, n.d.).

• Language Disorders: These can affect various aspects of communication, including understanding and using spoken and written language (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, n.d.).

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): This can impact social communication, behavior, and learning styles (Autism Speaks, n.d.).

• Sensory Processing Issues: Students may have differences in how they process sensory information, which can affect their attention, behavior, and learning (STAR Institute for Sensory Processing Disorder, n.d.).

• Emotional and Behavioral Disorders: These can impact a student's ability to regulate emotions, manage behavior, and engage in learning (National Association of School Psychologists, n.d.).

Our Qualifications:

The Literacy Solutions Specialist/Teachers are highly qualified and experienced educators with specialized training in literacy intervention and a deep understanding of learning differences, including dyslexia, dysgraphia, ADHD, and other learning differences as mentioned above. We are committed to ongoing professional development and staying abreast of the latest research and best practices in the field. Our expertise and dedication enable us to provide effective and individualized instruction that empowers students to overcome their challenges and achieve their full potential.

We also recognize the importance of honoring and leveraging students' native languages and cultural backgrounds. We believe that strong literacy skills in the native language can facilitate literacy development in English, ultimately leading to proficient multilingualism and enhanced cognitive abilities. We strive to create a culturally responsive and inclusive learning environment that celebrates diversity and supports all learners.