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Unlocking Reading Potential with the Wilson Reading Program for Students with Dyslexia

We are proud to incorporate the Wilson Reading System into our curriculum for elementary and middle school students in grades 3-6. This intensive, structured literacy program is specifically designed to support students with dyslexia and other language-based learning challenges. Rooted in Orton-Gillingham principles and aligned with the Science of Reading, the Wilson Reading Program provides evidence-based instruction that builds phonemic awareness, decoding, fluency, and comprehension skills, enabling students with dyslexia to overcome reading difficulties and achieve academic success.

A Structured Approach to Reading Success

The Wilson Reading Program provides students with a consistent and comprehensive daily structure to build essential literacy skills. By focusing on key components like phonemic awareness, vocabulary, and fluency, our program ensures students develop a deep understanding of language while mastering foundational reading skills.

Student at the board working using the Wilson Reading System

Comprehensive Daily Schedule

Our Wilson Reading Program is designed to ensure students master essential reading skills through daily lessons that include:

  • Phonemes (sounds)/Graphemes (letters): Building connections between sounds and their written representations.
  • Syllable and Stress Patterns: Understanding how syllables combine to form words.
  • Morphemes: Analyzing the smallest units of meaning in language.
  • Vocabulary Development: Expanding word knowledge for better comprehension.
  • Fluency Practice: Encouraging smooth, accurate, and expressive reading.
  • Syntax/Sentence Structure: Strengthening sentence formation and grammar skills.
  • Semantics/Text Structure: Focusing on meaning and how ideas are organized in texts.

Comprehensive Support for Every Learner

The Wilson Reading Program provides a holistic approach to literacy, combining evidence-based methods with individualized instruction. From multisensory techniques to a structured scope and sequence, each component is designed to address diverse learning needs and empower students to thrive.

Evidence-Based, Personalized Instruction at Saint Francis Elementary School

Evidence-Based, Personalized Instruction

With over 30 years of proven success, the Wilson Reading Program uses research-backed methods to deliver tailored instruction. Our reading specialists adapt lessons to meet the unique needs of every student, ensuring effective learning outcomes.

Saint Francis Wilson Reading Program integrates direct instruction in sounds, syllables, root words, and contextual meaning with multisensory techniques.

Language and Multisensory Learning

Our program integrates direct instruction in sounds, syllables, root words, and contextual meaning with multisensory techniques. Using visual, auditory, tactile, and kinesthetic methods, students connect with reading in ways that suit their individual learning styles.

The Wilson Reading System follows a logical, step-by-step progression that builds a strong foundation in literacy.

Structured Progression for Mastery

The Wilson Reading Program follows a logical, step-by-step progression that builds a strong foundation in literacy. Regular assessments guide instruction, helping students master skills before advancing to the next level.

Saint Francis Elementary Empowering Learners For Lifelong Success

Empowering Learners For Lifelong Success

Through intentional strategies, students develop an understanding of their own learning processes. This approach builds confidence and equips them with tools for academic success and lifelong learning habits.

Help Your Child Master Essential Reading Skills

Your child deserves to feel confident and successful in their reading journey. The Wilson Reading Program transforms struggles into triumphs with proven strategies that unlock essential skills like decoding, fluency, and comprehension. At Saint Francis, we go beyond teaching—we inspire. Come see how our supportive environment and dedicated educators can empower your child.

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FAQs About the Wilson Reading System at Saint Francis Schools

The Wilson Reading Program is specifically designed for students with language-based learning disabilities, such as dyslexia. Its structured approach focuses on building phonemic awareness, decoding skills, and fluency. By incorporating multisensory techniques (visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning), the program helps students connect sounds to letters and words, making reading less overwhelming and more achievable.

Unlike traditional reading programs, the Wilson Reading System is based on Orton-Gillingham principles, which emphasize explicit, systematic instruction tailored to the needs of struggling readers. The program includes a carefully structured sequence of lessons that ensure students fully master each skill before moving on. This individualized approach makes it particularly effective for students with reading challenges.

Student progress is closely tracked using research-based assessment tools. These tools help teachers identify areas where students need additional support and ensure instruction is tailored to their individual learning pace. Parents receive regular updates on their child’s progress, giving them clear insight into their growth and achievements.

Yes! While the Wilson Reading program is primarily offered to grades 3-6 at Saint Francis School, its methodology is designed to build foundational skills that support students well into higher grades. For students who need additional structured literacy support after grade 6, we offer the Just Words Program for grades 6-7. This program focuses on advanced reading and writing skills, emphasizing vocabulary building, reading comprehension, and written expression.

Additionally, our Reading Comprehension Program, available for grades 4-7, enhances students’ ability to analyze and understand complex texts. By using a variety of literary and informational materials, this program fosters critical thinking and a deeper appreciation for reading. These programs ensure that students continue to grow and succeed as they advance in their education.

The program integrates decoding with higher-level skills like vocabulary development, syntax, and text structure analysis. These elements help students understand the meaning of what they read, not just how to pronounce words. Daily practice with controlled text also builds fluency, allowing students to read with confidence and ease.