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.  Secondary consequences may include problems in reading comprehension and reduced reading experience that can impede the growth of vocabulary and background knowledge.

The Orton-Gillingham Approach is not a program that a parent or teacher can pick up from shelf and teach. It is an approach to teaching that encompasses core principles.  The Approach is a direct, explicit, multi-sensory, structured, sequential, cumulative, diagnostic, and prescriptive way to teach literacy to students who struggle to acquire reading, writing, and spelling skills.

O.G. practitioners focus on the individual needs of students.  Each lesson is written from scratch based on the students success and errors during the previous lesson.  O.G. practitioners break the English language down into very small crumbs then teach them in a direct, explicit, multi-sensory approach to build students' confidence and strengths.  

The Orton-Gillingham Approach is evidence-based, and scientifically-proven to remediate dyslexia.  Each certified practitioner endures rigorous training that includes at least one practicum experience under the direct supervision of an Academy fellow.