Dr. Linda Siegel MTSLD Teacher Scholarship

I would like to thank MTSLD for the funds and opportunity to attend an invaluable Professional Development Course.  I chose to use the funds to participate in the Orton Gillingham (Associate Level Training).  This course was taught through the Reading and Learning Clinic of Manitoba under the leadership of Dr. Valdine Bjornson.

During this course, I was able to continue my learning from the Orton Gillingham - Classroom Educator training.  The Associate Level training focussed on learners who are still learning, require explicit instruction, but are consolidating some of the skills learned.  The course focussed on 4 domains:  building vocabulary, latin, grammar and writing, as well as testing and diagnosis.  During the course, we were also able to look at reports and data related to a particular student of our choice.

I found the course to be invaluable!  I have already adapted some of the work that I do with students from Grades 4-6 in that it is important that students look at multisyllabic words as well as prefixes, root words, and affixes strategically.  I have begun looking at the list of prefixes and suffixes and am working with my school team about how we can integrate this for Tier 1 programming.  One teacher and I are also using the ‘paragraph structure’ template for writing.

Thank you again for the opportunity to take this course and I look forward to using my knowledge in the future as I work with students.  

Monica Zurrin