In 2018, Ottawa Hills Local Schools partnered with Drs. Katz and Pierson, founders of the Literacy, Language, and Learning Institute (3LI) in Ann Arbor, Michigan. We asked them to help us evaluate our efforts toward providing the best services possible for students with dyslexia. And, our reading program is much stronger for it! After careful examination of our processes and thoughtful discussions with focus groups and analysis of survey data– involving all stakeholders, they presented to us a comprehensive report of our strengths and needs for improvement, along with recommendations for future action. We spent the next three years implementing their recommendations, and we continue to reach out on occasion for their guidance. They are experts in their field who understand passionate educators and their desire to be their best.
-Dr. Bill Miller
Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction, Ottawa Hills Local Schools, Ohio
Our professional development focus on neurodiversity was missing a discussion of dyslexia and language-based learning disabilities, so we were thrilled when Drs. Pierson and Katz agreed to drive Up North to share their expertise. Their presentation on the latest research was eye-opening and riveting for our faculty and staff. Folks lined up to talk to Joanne and Lauren after the presentation. Needless to say, feedback was great. We want to have them back!
-Janet Lively
Director, Center for Instructional Excellence
Northwestern Michigan College
3LI’s professional development session on dyslexia was both comprehensive and highly impactful. It went beyond the foundational elements of phonics and phonological awareness to also emphasize strategies for strengthening vocabulary and reading comprehension for all learners, particularly students who exhibit characteristics of dyslexia.
The facilitation was engaging and well-paced. It captured the attention of educators throughout the session. Feedback from teachers, administrators, and instructional staff was overwhelmingly positive. Participants especially appreciated the depth of content, the instructional strategies, and the high-quality resources provided. They also noted the value of the question-and-answer segment at the end, which allowed for meaningful discussion and clarification.
-Intermediate School District Literacy Specialist
