READ Academy: Empowering Success With Structured Literacy Programs for Dyslexia

At READ Academy of Sacramento, we were founded with one clear purpose – to build a private dyslexia school in Sacramento that would be recognized as one of the best in the United States. Through our unique teaching approach, evidence-based curriculum, and truly passionate staff, we help students develop both academically and personally to reach their highest potential.

The Science of Reading: Our Foundation

The journey to reading proficiency for students with dyslexia requires a deep understanding of how the brain processes written language. Traditional teaching methods often fall short because they don’t address the specific neurological differences that make reading challenging for dyslexic learners. At READ Academy, we’ve built our foundation on decades of scientific research about how the dyslexic brain learns to read, enabling us to create programs that work with, rather than against, our students’ natural learning patterns.

Through careful analysis and implementation of the latest research in neuroscience and reading instruction, we’ve developed an approach that transforms struggling readers into confident learners. Our methods acknowledge that dyslexic students process information differently, and we leverage these differences as strengths rather than viewing them as obstacles to overcome.

Our scientifically-based approach includes:

• Systematic phonics instruction
• Explicit teaching methodologies
• Multi-sensory learning techniques
• Cumulative skill development
• Diagnostic teaching practices

Comprehensive Language Arts Instruction

Understanding the structure of language is crucial for students with dyslexia, who often struggle with traditional reading instruction methods. The Wilson Reading System (WRS) forms the cornerstone of our language arts program because it specifically addresses these challenges through a systematic, research-proven approach. Our certified instructors use this comprehensive reading curriculum to build strong foundational skills while adapting to each student’s unique learning needs.

The Wilson Reading System’s effectiveness lies in its carefully structured, multisensory approach to teaching reading and spelling. This program recognizes that dyslexic learners need explicit instruction in how sounds and letters work together, how words are structured, and how our language functions as a whole. Through systematic, cumulative instruction, students build confidence alongside competence.

Our WRS curriculum specifically addresses:

• Phonological-coding research principles
• Orton-Gillingham methodologies
• Systematic English language instruction
• Direct teaching approaches
• Sequential skill building

Writing Excellence Program

Writing presents unique challenges for students with dyslexia, often causing frustration and anxiety that can mask their true creative and intellectual capabilities. Through the Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW), we’ve implemented a writing program that breaks down the complex process of writing into manageable, systematic steps. This approach removes the overwhelming nature of writing tasks and replaces it with clear, achievable objectives.

Our writing instruction recognizes that strong writing skills are crucial for academic success and future professional opportunities. We believe that every student has important ideas to share, and our role is to provide them with the tools and confidence to express those ideas effectively. Through careful scaffolding and explicit instruction, we help students discover their voice while mastering the technical aspects of writing.

Through IEW, we provide:

• Sequential, systematic writing instruction
• Clear thinking development
• Eloquent expression skills
• Persuasive writing techniques
• Confidence-building strategies

Comprehensive Mathematical Understanding

Mathematics often poses significant challenges for students with dyslexia, not just because of number recognition issues, but because traditional math instruction rarely addresses the underlying cognitive processes needed for mathematical thinking. Our Making Math Real program represents a revolutionary approach to mathematics instruction that aligns with how the dyslexic brain processes mathematical concepts.

This multisensory methodology transforms abstract mathematical concepts into concrete, understandable processes. By integrating visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning experiences, we help students build strong neural pathways that support both computational skills and mathematical reasoning. This approach not only helps students master current concepts but also builds a strong foundation for advanced mathematical thinking.

Our mathematics program utilizes Making Math Real to provide:

• Hands-on mathematical experiences
• Integrated cognitive development
• Executive function support
• Working memory enhancement
• Comprehensive mathematical knowledge

Integrated Social Studies and Science

Traditional textbook-based approaches to social studies and science often create barriers for dyslexic learners, limiting their ability to engage with and understand complex concepts. Moving Beyond the Page (MBP) revolutionizes this learning experience by creating an immersive, multisensory approach to these crucial subjects. By integrating literature, hands-on projects, and interactive experiences, we make abstract concepts concrete and memorable.

Our approach recognizes that dyslexic students often excel at big-picture thinking and creative problem-solving. MBP leverages these strengths by presenting information in ways that capitalize on their natural learning style. This program goes beyond simple memorization to foster deep understanding and critical thinking skills, ensuring students not only learn the content but also understand how to apply it in real-world situations.

Moving Beyond the Page enriches our curriculum with:

• Hands-on literature-based learning
• Critical thinking development
• Creative problem-solving
• Project-based learning opportunities
• State and national standards alignment

Multi-Sensory Learning Integration

The dyslexic brain processes information differently, often excelling when multiple senses are engaged simultaneously in the learning process. At READ Academy, we’ve developed a comprehensive understanding of how multisensory instruction strengthens neural pathways and enhances both learning and retention. This isn’t just about using different senses – it’s about creating powerful learning experiences that build lasting understanding.

Our multisensory approach is intentionally designed to create multiple pathways for learning, ensuring that information is not just memorized but truly understood. By engaging various senses simultaneously, we help students create stronger neural connections and deeper understanding of concepts. This approach not only aids in immediate learning but also supports long-term retention and application of knowledge.

Our integrated approach includes:

• Visual learning strategies
• Hands-on activities
• Interactive projects
• Technology-enhanced learning
• Collaborative experiences

Individualized Support System

Every student with dyslexia has a unique learning profile, with individual strengths, challenges, and needs. Our small class sizes aren’t just about providing more attention – they’re about creating an environment where we can truly understand and respond to each student’s learning style. This individualized approach allows us to adapt our teaching methods in real-time, ensuring that every student receives instruction in ways that work best for them.

Through careful observation and ongoing assessment, we continuously refine our approach for each student. This dynamic process ensures that students are consistently challenged while receiving the support they need to succeed. Our teachers become experts in understanding each student’s learning style, enabling them to anticipate needs and provide proactive support.

Small class sizes enable us to:

• Provide personalized attention
• Monitor individual progress
• Adjust teaching strategies
• Support specific learning needs
• Build student confidence

Parent Partnership and Support

Success in educating students with dyslexia requires a strong partnership between school and home. At READ Academy, we recognize that parents are crucial partners in their child’s educational journey. We’ve developed a comprehensive support system that ensures parents have the tools, knowledge, and resources they need to effectively support their child’s learning outside the classroom.

Understanding dyslexia and its impact on learning can be overwhelming for parents. Our parent support program provides education, resources, and ongoing communication to help parents become confident advocates for their children. We believe that when parents understand the ‘why’ behind our methods, they can better support their child’s learning journey.

We build this partnership through:

• Regular progress updates
• Parent education opportunities
• Communication tools
• Resource sharing
• Collaborative planning

Creating Confident Learners

Dyslexia often impacts more than just academic performance – it can affect a student’s self-image and confidence. At READ Academy, we understand that building confident learners requires more than just academic instruction. Our approach focuses on developing the whole student, nurturing their strengths while providing support for challenges.

Through years of experience, we’ve learned that confidence grows when students understand their own learning style and are given the tools to succeed. We create an environment where students feel safe to take risks, make mistakes, and celebrate their progress. This approach helps students develop not just academic skills, but also the resilience and self-advocacy skills they’ll need throughout their lives.

Our confidence-building approach focuses on:

• Building self-confidence
• Developing independence
• Encouraging creativity
• Fostering critical thinking
• Celebrating individual progress

Professional Excellence in Instruction

The success of any educational program ultimately depends on the expertise and dedication of its teachers. At READ Academy, we’ve assembled a team of passionate educators who bring both specialized training in dyslexia education and a deep commitment to student success. Our teachers undergo continuous professional development to stay current with the latest research and best practices in dyslexia education.

We believe that excellent teachers never stop learning. Our professional development program ensures that our staff maintains expertise in the latest research-based methods while continuing to develop new strategies for reaching every student. This commitment to excellence ensures that our students receive the most effective, up-to-date instruction available.

Our staff development ensures:

• Evidence-based instruction
• Ongoing professional development
• Collaborative teaching approaches
• Individual student success
• Continuous program improvement

Your Child’s Educational Journey Begins Here

“We are all different. We have different hair and different eyes. We like different foods and different stories. So why in the world would we expect everyone to think and learn in the same way?” – Lenka Vodicka-Paredes

Don’t let dyslexia prevent your child from becoming the confident, capable learner that they were born to become! 

Schedule a private tour or call us at (916) 258-2080 or visit our campus at 2565 Millcreek Dr. Sacramento, CA 95833 to discover how our structured literacy programs can help your child thrive.