Evelyn Reiss: Like many teachers, I am motivated by curiosity, a search for answers and a desire to help. When I started teaching, I was amazed at the difficulty many of my students faced in learning to read and write, and was fortunate to find the answers when I studied the Orton-Gillingham Approach. Using my linguistic training, I analyzed the processes involved in learning to read and write and found that complex learning could be taught through a system combining pattern recognition, text analysis and multi-sensory techniques provided in a therapeutic environment.

My pedagogical journey began in the public system as an elementary teacher, and later I established The Writing Studio, where I taught children and adults. I went on to establish an education consulting and assessment practice, The Claremont School-a private elementary school for students with dyslexia, and a teacher training institute.

My academic background in the Sciences, Arts and Education has given me insight into the challenges of reading in different disciplines. I was always interested in systems whether scientific or linguistic. I published my first book of poetry at the age of 11 years. After completing my B.Sc. in Physiology, I co-authored a book on nutrition entitled “Stay Healthy in Later Life,” edited ESL textbooks and worked as a freelance journalist. My interest in language and science led me to a post-graduate degree in Teaching English as a Second Language and High School Biology. Once I began my teaching career, I obtained a Specialist in Special Education and a Master of Arts in Psychology and Curriculum Studies (Leeds University). My most cherished qualification is that of Fellow of the Academy of Orton-Gillingham Practitioners and Educators (AOGPE). I completed my second Master of Arts (University of Toronto) where my thesis was a formative case study using the OG Approach. I wrote the language curriculum for the Claremont School. The curriculum is available to teachers world-wide as The Great Word House™ (GWH). Claremont School is also a teacher training institute for the GWH and Orton-Gillingham Practical Linguistics™.

I am a member of the Ontario College of Teachers with qualifications in the Primary, Junior, Intermediate and Senior divisions. As an Education Consultant, Reading and Writing Specialist and classroom teacher, I have over 30 years experience helping children and adults with many different skill levels, which range from Learning Disabled to Gifted. My methodology is an amalgamation of my experience in the field and education in science and linguistics.

Website: http://greatwordhouse.com