Rock, Move, Read 'n' Spell: Using Music and Movement to Supercharge Structured Literacy with Dan Coquhoun

Presentation: 

Join Dan Colquhoun (Rocking Dan Teaching Man) for an engaging session on how music and movement can enhance structured literacy instruction. Discover how rhythm, melody, repetition, and physical activity can support multi-sensory, explicit, and systematic phonics instruction, helping students decode, encode, and retain essential reading and spelling skills. Learn practical strategies and catchy songs that align with the Science of Reading, the Orton-Gillingham approach, and Explicit Direct Instruction, making literacy learning fun, interactive, and highly effective—especially for students with dyslexia. Get ready to rock, move, read, and spell your way to success! 

Bio:

Dan Colquhoun is an award-winning primary teacher, musician, and literacy advocate dedicated to making learning engaging and accessible for all students. Known to many as Rocking Dan Teaching Man, he combines his passion for education, music, and movement to create songs that help children develop essential literacy and numeracy skills. In 2024, Dan was honored as the Dyslexia Aware Global Teacher of the Year,  He is a dedicated advocate for the Science of Reading and Explicit Direct Instruction, he champions evidence-based approaches to literacy, ensuring that all children—especially those with dyslexia—receive the structured support they need to become confident readers and writers. He works closely with The Code Read Dyslexia Network, raising awareness and promoting best practices for literacy instruction. Dan’s music has gained a worldwide following, with songs like " Hey Hey They're the Vowels, "Get up and Dance to the Digraphs", “Be Kind to Everyone,” “Friends of 10,” and his latest album "Dancing with the Syllables" is helping children grasp key structured literacy concepts like syllable types and syllable division in a fun, multi-sensory way. Through his Rocking Dan Teaching Man YouTube channel and Virtual World Tour (where he has performed for over 571 schools globally), Dan continues to inspire students, teachers, and families. Whether through his engaging songs, live performances, or literacy advocacy, Dan Colquhoun is making a lasting impact on the way children learn.  

Credentials:
Dan is a primary teacher, an Associate Member of the Australia Dyslexia Association, Multisensory Structured Language MSL instructor trained by the Institute of Mulitsensory Structured Language, a board member of The Code Read Dyslexia Network. He holds a Bachelor of Education (BEd) and a Post Graduate Certificate of Education (Early Childhood) from The Australian Catholic University. In 2024 he was named Nessy Teacher of the Year, Dyslexia Aware, Global Award winner. As an early years literacy coordinator he led his former school in structured literacy reform and mentored the teaching staff in the Science of Reading. In 2018 his blog was named one of the Best 25 Children's Music Blogs on the Planet and in 2017 his blog was awarded one of the Top 10 Children's Music Blog in the world. In 2015 Dan won the ACU Community Engagement Award.

Creating a Science of Reading Infused Literacy Block with Amy Ducey and Peggy Price

Presentation: 

This presentation focuses on maximizing routines and transitions within the literacy block and throughout the school day. We use the Simple View of Reading to understand the necessary components of the literacy block. Learn how to create routines to maintain a perky pace of instruction and keep student engagement high. This session also includes activities and strategies that can be implemented in the classroom to build language comprehension and written expression.

Time: TBD 

Prerequisites: None 

Bio:

Amy Ducey provides training at the Orton-Gillingham Classroom Educator, Associate, and Certified levels in addition to a variety of literacy related workshops and webinars. She teaches graduate level courses and has created curriculum and assessment materials for universal screening and progress monitoring. She is the lead author of Orton-Gillingham for the K–2 Classroom: Weekly Guide and Universal Assessment, Second Edition. Amy speaks regularly at national conferences about effective district-wide training and the importance of aligning classroom assessment and instruction. Amy was instrumental in adapting the Stern Center’s Orton-Gillingham to be a leader in online OG training. Amy has worked as a literacy coach, reading interventionist, and a kindergarten teacher for over a decade. She also has extensive experience as an early education provider.

Credentials:

Amy Ducey is a Fellow with the prestigious Orton-Gillingham Academy and holds a master’s degree in Education from Southern New Hampshire University. Her bachelor’s degree is in Elementary Education from Johnson State College.
Amy is passionate about helping teachers understand the importance of explicit, systematic and sequential reading instruction.


Disclosures:

Financial: Amy earns a salary as the Assistant Director of the Orton-Gillingham Institute at the Stern Center for Language and Learning, an education-focused nonprofit. She is receiving an honorarium to present her topic.

Non-Financial: Amy provides training at the Orton-Gillingham (OG) Classroom Educator, Associate, and Certified levels. She is a Fellow with the Orton-Gillingham Academy.

Creating a Science of Reading Infused Literacy Block with Amy Ducey and Peggy Price

Presentation: 

This presentation focuses on maximizing routines and transitions within the literacy block and throughout the school day. We use the Simple View of Reading to understand the necessary components of the literacy block. Learn how to create routines to maintain a perky pace of instruction and keep student engagement high. This session also includes activities and strategies that can be implemented in the classroom to build language comprehension and written expression.

Time: TBD 

Prerequisites: None 

Bio: 

Peggy Price, M.Ed., Fellow/OGA, is the Director of the Orton-Gillingham Institute at the Stern Center for Language and Learning. She provides training at the Orton-Gillingham (OG) Classroom Educator, Associate, and Certified levels in addition to a broad array of OG workshops and webinars. Price oversees a talented team of OG Fellows who assist her with providing in-depth mentorship to educators seeking OG certification. She regularly speaks at national conferences about the OG Approach, has been featured in podcasts, and was an editor for the Orton-Gillingham Academy newsletter for the past five years. She has taught Orton-Gillingham to students from ages 5–44, and loves witnessing her students (and now the educators she mentors) blossom as they learn the structure of the English language. Price holds a master's degree in Special Education: Early Childhood Multiple and Severe Disabilities from Georgia State University. Her bachelor's degree is in Psychology, with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis from Binghamton University. Price firmly believes every child has the right to become a literate member of our society, and every teacher deserves the knowledge and training to realize that promise.

Disclosures:

Financial: Peggy earns a salary as the Director of the Orton-Gillingham Institute at the Stern Center for Language and Learning, an education-focused nonprofit. She is receiving an honorarium to present her topic.

Non-Financial: Peggy provides training at the Orton-Gillingham (OG) Classroom Educator, Associate, and Certified levels, and regularly speaks at national conferences about the OG Approach, neuromyths, and the Science of Reading.

From Words to Writing: How Speech and Language Shape Literacy with Brianna Guild

Presentation: 

This presentation explores the essential connection between speech, language, and literacy. Discover how speech and oral language lay the foundation for literacy skills, along with practical strategies to support development. Learn simple yet impactful activities that target multiple skills, backed by research and demonstrated through video examples. No matter your role or setting, you’ll gain actionable insights to support learning.

Time: TBD 

Prerequisites: None 

Bio:

Brianna Guild, M.H.Sc SLP(C) is a private practice Speech-Language Pathologist in Ontario, Canada. She provides speech therapy services primarily in the areas of literacy, language, and articulation. She is the creator of SLP Literacy Corner, through which she shares literacy resources and ideas for educators, and provides professional development in the form of group presentations and 1:1 literacy coaching. She also serves as the SLP and literacy consultant for Nomnivore Games Inc., an award-winning indie game studio from Ontario, Canada that focuses on accessibility.

Credentials:
Brianna has a Master of Health Sciences in Speech-Language Pathology (SLP). She is registered with the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario (CASLPO) and Speech-Language & Audiology Canada (SAC). Additionally, she has completed the following literacy training: Sounds-Write, Reading Simplified, IDA Ontario's Basics of Decoding and Spelling Instruction, Ascend SMARTER Intervention, and The Hanen Centre's ABC and Beyond.

Disclosures:

Financial: Brianna receives compensation as a professional development and coaching provider through SLP Literacy Corner. She also receives compensation for resources sold through the SLP Literacy Corner store on Teachers Pay Teachers (TPT), and affiliate sales for Got It Learning. She receives royalties from sales of An Amazing Alphabet book that she authored for Nomnivore Games Inc. She is receiving an honorarium to present her topic.                                    

Non-Financial: The presenter does not have any non-financial conflicts to disclose.

The False Assumption of Reading Intervention: Why Your Students Get Stuck at Step One with Elizabeth Doherty

Presentation: 

The majority of published Scope & Sequences start with consonants, short vowels, and reading CVC words. These programs assume children will intuitively grasp the complex process of blending sounds into meaningful words. However, for many children—particularly those with language-based learning differences—this critical skill doesn't develop naturally. Ironically, students often struggle at the very first step of intervention programs specifically designed to support them.This session will explore the fundamental skill that most Scope & Sequences overlook, and equip you with practical, high-impact techniques you can implement immediately to help your struggling readers bridge this crucial gap.

Time: TBD 

Prerequisites: None 

Bio:

Elizabeth is a speech-language pathologist, literacy specialist, and national presenter. She spent over a decade in New York City Public Schools before transitioning to private practice work, where she supports students with the dual diagnoses of dyslexia and DLD. Elizabeth is the author of The Reading SLP program, a course and membership that empowers speech pathologists leverage their existing language expertise to provide reading instruction. She is an adjunct lecturer in Hunter College's Communication Sciences program and Brooklyn College's Advanced Certificates in Reading Science. Elizabeth lives in New York City with her husband and two daughters. 

Credentials:
Elizabeth is currently a doctoral stuent studying educator preparedness to provide reading intervention. She holds two master's degrees, one in speech-language pathology and another in education leadership. Elizabeth is is certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), The Academy of Orton Gillingham (OGA), and The International Dyslexia Association (SLD-I).  


Disclosures:
Financial: Elizabeh Doherty is the President of Manhattan Speech, Language, & Literacy, LLC, and receives compensation for providing speech therarpy and structured literacy intervention to students as well as professional development to educators. She received an honorarium for her presentation.

Non-Financial: Elizabeth does not have any non-financial conflicts to disclose.

Sentence Power: Building Strong Writers One Skill at a Time with Heather O'Donnell

Presentation: 

Writing a sentence is one of the essential building blocks of literacy.  And yet, many students struggle with this crucial skill.  And many teachers aren't quite sure how to teach them!  This presentation will cover the essential concepts your students need to understand to be effective sentence writers.  We'll review the basic components of sentence writing before expanding into instructional techniques and differentiation suggestions.  Sample resources for you to use with your students will be provided.    

Time: TBD 

Prerequisites: None 

Bio:

Heather O’Donnell MS.Ed and Ed.M began her career as a classroom teacher, working in both special and general education classroom settings. She left the classroom in 2018 to open New Paltz Multisensory, an online and in person tutoring practice in New Paltz, NY, which has grown to a team of 16 tutors providing online and in person multisensory reading, writing and math instruction to students in over 10 states. All providers are certified and highly trained in using the Orton-Gillingham approach to diagnostically provide explicit instruction so that kids learn to love learning again! In 2023 the tutoring practice expanded into creating structured literacy and multisensory math materials for use with our clients, and to support other teachers looking to expand their library of go-to teaching tools. In the fall of 2024, we launched the Dyslexia Parent Toolkit, an online membership to provide parents of kids with dyslexia the knowledge they need to ensure their child’s literacy success. You can find more information about these offerings at www.newpaltzmultisensory.com, on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter @New Paltz Multisensory Tutoring You can find our resources on TPT at New Paltz Multisensory Tutoring.

Credentials:
Heather O'Donnell graduated from Cornell University with a Bachelor's in Science in Human Development.  She has a MS.Ed in Early Childhood and Elementary Education and an Ed.M in Early Childhood Special Education from Bank Street College.  She is a certified Wilson Dyslexia Practictioner and a Center for Effective Reading Instruction (CERI) Certified Structured Literacy Dyslexia Interventionist.  She is also an Associate member of the Orton Gillingham Academy.  After taking the original Hochman Writing Method class with Dr. Hochman herself as well as numerous online classes with William Van Cleave, she is passionate about bringing reading and writing together to further students learning in structured literacy. 

Disclosures:

Financial: Heather O'Donnell is the founder and owner of New Paltz Multisensory. She is receiving an honorarium to present her topic.

Non-Financial: The presenter does not have any non-financial conflicts to disclose.

Moving Beyond Sound by Sound Reading to Automaticity with Janique Parrott-Gaffney

Presentation: 

Children with reading difficulties often say each sound in a word and then blend the whole word, and repeat for the next word. Let’s help them achieve automaticity to free up cognitive space for comprehension! This presentation will focus on impactful, research-based strategies that you can implement to get your students reading words and texts with accuracy and automaticity.

Time: TBD 

Prerequisites: None 

Bio:

Janique Parrott-Gaffney, the founder of Literacy Without Limits, LLC, is a certified structured literacy dyslexia specialist and coach. She provides structured literacy intervention to students in K-5th grade with dyslexia and other reading difficulties and consulting services to private and public schools in the Washington, DC area. She prides herself on providing efficient and effective instruction, staying abreast of current reading research, and supporting teachers in Title 1 schools to improve literacy outcomes.

Credentials:
Certified Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist, Master of Arts in Teaching

Disclosures:
Financial: Janique Parrott-Gaffney is the founder of Literacy Without Limits, LLC and receives compensation for providing structured literacy intervention to students and consulting services to schools. She received an honorarium for her presentation.

Non-Financial: Janique does not have any non-financial conflicts to disclose.

Understanding Parent Procedural Safeguards with Jennifer Bernheim

Presentation: 

This session will provide educators with a clear understanding of the procedural safeguards that protect the rights of students with disabilities and their families under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Struggling readers often receive specially designed instruction through an IEP, making it essential for educators to understand the legal protections that guide the special education process. Participants will gain insights into how these safeguards impact the IEP process, foster collaboration with parents, and ensure compliance with legal requirements. 

Time: TBD 

Prerequisites: None 

Bio:

Jennifer Bernheim is the founder of Right to Read Advocacy, an educational consultancy that educates and empowers parents of dyslexic learners through parent coaching, direct advocacy, and educational offerings. As the mom of a dyslexic learner, Jennifer knows how challenging it can be to navigate the special education process in a public school district. She is also the host of the Right to Read podcast, which was launched in collaboration with the Westport Public Library’s Verso Studios. Jennifer has completed the esteemed Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates’ (COPAA) Special Education and Advocacy Training (SEAT) 1.0 and 2.0 courses. She adheres to COPAA’s Advocate Voluntary Code of Ethics. Her additional education includes the Orton-Gillingham Academy Subscriber Course and WrightsLaw Special Ed Law & Advocacy Training. Prior to founding Right to Read Advocacy, Jennifer spent 20 years as a public relations practitioner, providing strategic communications support for purpose-driven companies. She holds a master’s degree in communication studies from the University of Rhode Island. Jennifer lives in Weston, CT with her husband, three children, and Australian labradoodle.

Credentials:

Jennifer Bernheim has completed the esteemed Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates’ (COPAA) Special Education and Advocacy Training (SEAT) 1.0 and 2.0 courses, which included a practicum with a special education attorney. Her additional education includes completion of the Orton-Gillingham Academy Subscriber Course and WrightsLaw Special Ed Law & Advocacy Training. Prior to founding Right to Read Advocacy, Jennifer spent 20 years as a public relations practitioner.

Disclosures:

Jennifer Bernheim is the founder of Right to Read Advocacy and receives compensation for providing advocacy consultaton to parents. She received an honorarium for her presentation.

Non-Financial: The presenter does not have any non-financial conflicts to disclose.

Is Dyslexia Really Seeing Backward? with Jennifer Jacobsen

Presentation: 

Fact or fiction: Students with dyslexia see words backward? Join the discussion to find the answer, as well as learn about the root causes and characteristics of dyslexia, how it affects students' learning, and what you can do about it to become a more effective teacher so your students can succeed. Discover proven strategies that transform struggling readers into confident learners.

Time: TBD 

Prerequisites: None 

Bio:

Mrs. Jennifer Jacobsen's career as an educator highlights the powerful impact of commitment and ongoing professional growth, especially in the realm of special education and dyslexia intervention. With 19 years of experience as an Intervention Specialist, she has demonstrated a strong dedication to supporting students with dyslexia—an often-challenging condition within traditional educational settings.
Her expertise in Structured Literacy and dyslexia intervention is evident not only through her classroom achievements but also in her work as a speaker and educator. Through her company, Demystifying Dyslexia, LLC, Mrs. Jacobsen shares her knowledge and experiences with other educators, providing them with the tools and strategies to build inclusive learning environments where all students, including those with dyslexia, can succeed.

She lives in the Midwest with her husband, two sons, and their dog.

Credentials:
Jennifer Jacobsen has her M.Ed in Reading Specialites, she has been trained in LETRs and the Wilson Reading program, she has passed the Knowledge and Practice Examination for Effective Reading Instruction (KPEERI) to earn certification as a Certified Structured Literacy and Dyslexia Interventionist, and she has received a certification in Dyslexia. The presenter has presented at the world-wide level for education conferences on the topic of teaching those with dyslexia. 

Disclosures:

Financial:   Jennifer Jacobsen is the CEO of Demystifying Dyslexia, LLC. Periodicaly, she receives compensation for conducting dyslexia screenings for parent, teacher/school purposes. Jennifer also receives compensation for her Reading Strategies Cards©, and occassional workshop/presentation public events. She is receiving an honorarium to present her topic.                                                        Non-Financial: The presenter does not have any non-financial conflicts to disclose.

A Rose is a Rose by Any Other Name...Can the Same be Said About Structured Literacy?With Kari Fotis 

Presentation: 

In 2014, the International Dyslexia Association (IDA) introduced the term “Structured Literacy” (SL) to describe the essential components for implementing evidence-based reading instruction, applicable not only to struggling readers but to ALL students learning to read. This comprehensive term, similar to “The Science of Reading,” is often utilized to characterize various programs and interventions, which may or may not include the critical elements. This session will review the IDA’s 75th anniversary edition of their publication, Perspectives on Language and Literacy, along with their SL Info Map and SL Wheel, to assist educators and parents in evaluating if programs meet Structured Literacy criteria.  

Time: TBD 

Prerequisites: None 

Bio:

Kari Fotis, M.Ed., C-SLDS, is the Founder and Director of the Hampton Roads Dyslexia Center (HRDC) in Newport News, VA, which she opened after nearly 20 years of teaching and tutoring as a special education teacher. HRDC provides diagnostic testing and evidence-based intensive intervention for people with learning disabilities, as well as professional development, education, support, and advocacy services for families in the surrounding areas. Additionally, Kari works as an educational diagnostician for the Virginia Center for Autism and Related Developmental Disabilities (VCARDD) in Richmond, VA. Kari graduated from the University of Maryland with a B.S. in Psychology and an M.Ed. in Special Education Curriculum and Instruction from the College of William and Mary. She is a certified Wilson Language Dyslexia Therapist and Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist with the Center for Effective Reading Interventions (CERI). Kari holds professional membership with the IDA, CERI, ILA, and the Council for Exceptional Children. As an active member in her community, Kari also serves on the Board of Directors for the Virginia Branch of the IDA and Learning Disability Association of America (LDA).

Credentials:
Kari completed her Bachelor's of Science degree in Psychology from the University of Maryland. She then went on to earn her Master's degree in Special Education Curriculum and Instruction K-12 from the College of William and Mary. Kari is a Wilson Dyslexia Therapist and a Certified Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist through the Center for Effective Reading Instruction.  She is a certified special education teacher in VA and after nearly 20 years in public education, she opened the Hampton Roads Dyslexia Center where she continues to teach, provide professional development, along with testing and diagnosing dyslexia. 

Disclosures:

Financial: Kari Fotis is the owner and director of Hampton Roads Dyslexia Center, LLC. She receives compensation from her business for testing, tutoring, and providing professional developement. Kari is receiving an honorarium to present her topic.

Non-Financial: Kari is a member of and serves on the Board of Directors for the Virginia Branch of the IDA as well as The Learning Disabilities Association of America.  

Beyond Big Words: Simplifying Multisyllabic Decoding with Kathleen Ferrufino

Presentation: 

When students encounter longer words, they often freeze—but they don’t have to! This session will equip you with easy, engaging strategies to help students confidently break apart and decode multisyllabic words. Learn how to teach syllable division, recognize common patterns, and build reading fluency in a way that feels natural and fun. Walk away with practical techniques to turn complex words into manageable ones, empowering your students to read with confidence!

Time: TBD 

Prerequisites: None 

Bio:

Kathleen Ferrufino is a Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT) with over 11 years of experience specializing in literacy and dyslexia. As someone with dyslexia herself, she brings both professional expertise and personal insight to her work. Through her private practice, ClearPath Dyslexia, Kathleen supports students, parents, and educators by offering dyslexia therapy, consultations, resources, and training.

Credentials:
Kathleen Ferrufino has her M.Ed in special education from George Mason University, She has been trained in Wilson Reading program and is a Dyslexia Practitioner. Kathleen has also been trained in Take Flight where she became a Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT) through Academic Language Therapist Association (ALTA). Additional certifications include: Texas generalist (K-6) and special education (K-12) and Florida generalist (K-6) and special education (K-12)


Disclosures:

Kathleen Ferrufino has a private dyslexia therapy practice, ClearPath Dyslexia, receiving compensation as a consultant. She receives compensation for consulting and teaching.

Non-Financial: Kathleen is a member of ALTA and IDA. The presenter does not have any non-financial conflicts to disclose.

Breaking Barriers with AT! Digital Tools to Support Students with Dyslexia with Katie Larew

Presentation: 

Writing is often one of the most challenging areas for students with dyslexia. Students often encounter roadblocks at every stage of the writing process, leading to frustration and even tears. Let’s help students break down those barriers! In this session, we’ll explore digital tools that can transform the writing experience for students - from brainstorming to publishing! Discover how Assistive Technology can make writing more accessible for students from elementary school to college!

Time: TBD 

Prerequisites: None 

Bio:

Katie Larew is the founder of Assistive Technology for Dyslexia, LLC and is passionate about spreading greater awareness of tools to empower students with dyslexia!  She is a wife & mom of two. Katie began her journey in the field of education in 2007 as a classroom Special Education Teacher in New Jersey. In 2014, she moved to San Diego, California and worked as an Assistive Technology Specialist for a K-12 School District for eight years.  As a RESNA Certified Assistive Technology Professional, Katie has worked with students from elementary school to college. She holds a Master’s Degree in Special Education as well as additional certifications as an IMSLEC certified Orton-Gillingham Teacher and CERI Certified Structured Literacy Dyslexia Interventionist.  Katie’s approach focuses on the students unique strengths while finding tools to support specific areas of need.  She believes in the importance of creating a positive, collaborative approach between home and school.  Katie provides customized step-by-step virtual training, professional development and workshops for students, parents, and teachers throughout the world. Training topics focus on creating systems to effectively implement Assistive Technology in a way that works best for the student!

Credentials:
Masters of Arts in Teaching:  Special Education & Elementary Education, Bachelor of Science: Special Education & Fine Arts, The Center for Effective Reading Instruction (CERI) - Certified Structured Literacy Dyslexia Interventionist, IMSLEC Certfiied Orton-Gillingham Teacher, Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA) Certified Assistive Technology Professional - , Certified Education Specialist (California), Certified Multiple Subject Teacher (California), Additional Certifications include: CSUN Assistive Technology & Teacher Leadership

Disclosures:

Financial: Katie Larew is the founder of Assistive Technology for Dyslexia, LLC and provides trainings, resources, workshops, and professional development focused on Assistive Technology tools and accommodations to support student’s access to curriculum.  She receives compensation for these services.  Katie is receiving an honorarium to present her topic. 

Non-Financial: Katie is a RESNA certified Assistive Technology Professional, IMSLEC Certified Orton-Gillingham Teacher, and CERI Certified Structured Literacy Dyslexia Interventionist.  She serves on the Board of Directors for the San Diego Branch of the International Dyslexia Association (nonprofit organization).

Understanding Developmental Language Disorder with Kendal Martes

Presentation: 

Research suggests that Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) impacts about 2 children out of every classroom yet there is still limited awareness of DLD. This presentation will provide a comprehensive explanation of DLD, including early signs, how it manifests in school age children, and its frequent co-occurrence with dyslexia. There will also be discussion of how to support children with DLD from parent and educator perspectives. 

Time: TBD 

Prerequisites: None 

Bio:

Kendal Martes, M.A. CCC-SLP is currently the Director of Outreach at Friends Academy in Dartmouth, Massachusetts, and the former Director of the Sally Borden Program, a integrated program designed for students with dyslexia within Friends Academy. In addition, Kendal is an Adjunct Professor in the Special Education department at Rhode Island College and a certified Speech-Language Pathologist and Structured Literacy Dyslexia Interventionist. She has worked as a SLP and Learning Specialist in a variety of settings, including public schools, independent schools, and private practice. While she now works primarily as a school administrator and in teacher preparation programs, Kendal still works directly with school age students, performing screenings and evaluations of children with suspected dyslexia and DLD. She is passionate about the early identification of learning differences and fostering collaboration among special education professionals.

Credentials:
M.A. in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences from the University of Colorado at Boulder; Current Doctoral student at the University of Florida; Certified Speech-Language Pathologist through the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA); Certified Structured Literacy/Dyslexia Interventionist through Center for Effective Reading Instruction (CERI); Trained in the Orton-Gillingham approach through an IMSLEC-accredited training program at the Children's Dyslexia Center of Rhode Island.

Disclosures:

Financial: Kendal Martes earns a salary as the Director of Outreach at Friends Academy, an independent Early Childhood-Grade 8 school. She also receives compensation as an Adjunct Professor and College Supervisor at Rhode Island College. Kendal is receiving an honorarium to present her topic. 

Non-Financial: The presenter does not have any non-financial conflicts to disclose.

Word by Word: Vocabulary Building Strategies with Leigh Healy

Presentation: 

Build vocabulary, one word at a time! Research shows that students should be learning hundreds of new words each year to thrive academically. In this session, participants will discover practical strategies for selecting high-impact vocabulary words and explore engaging, effective teaching techniques to help students master them. Leave with a comprehensive toolbox of ready-to-implement activities that will empower you to cultivate stronger vocabularies in your students.

Time: TBD 

Prerequisites: None 

Bio:

Leigh Healy is a reading specialist with over twenty years of experience in public and private schools. Throughout her career in various roles, she developed a strong passion for working with students with dyslexia and dysgraphia. In 2023, she founded Healy Literacy, a private practice serving elementary and middle school students with learning differences. Healy Literacy offers tutoring, informal literacy assessments, and parent guidance. Additionally, Leigh supports teachers as a Fellow in Training with the Orton-Gillingham Academy. Through this work, she can share the knowledge, tools, and passion she has acquired with training participants. Outside of her professional life, Leigh enjoys experimenting with new recipes, reading, spending time on the river, and walking her beloved black lab, Deac.

Credentials:
Leigh Healy has a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and a Master of Arts in Reading Education. She is a North Carolina licensed teacher in Elementary Education (K-6), Reading Education (K-12), and Academically or Intellectually Gifted Education. Currently, she is a Fellow-in-Training with the Orton-Gillingham Academy.

Disclosures:

Financial: Leigh Healy is provided compensation as a tutor and owner of Healy Literacy. Healy Literacy provides tutoring, informal literacy assessments, and parent support. She is receiving an honorarium to present her topic.

Non-financial: Leigh Healy is a Fellow in Training with the Orton Gillingham Academy and is currently a member at the Certified Level. She is a member of the International Dyslexia Association and The Reading League. She is active in the North Carolina chapters of these professional organizations.

Combining Morphology and Decoding Development During Instruction with Lisa Parnello

Presentation: 

Students with decoding struggles often fall behind in written vocabulary development when they cannot read grade-level text. This session will provide strategies for how to provide both morphology and decoding instruction simultaneously to make the most of instructional time to maximize both vocabulary and decoding development. 

Time: TBD 

Prerequisites: None 

Bio:

Lisa Parnello is a dyslexia expert with over 18 years of experience in public and private schools, focusing on students with learning differences such as dyslexia and dysgraphia. She is the CEO of Parnello Education Services, which provides 1-on-1 dyslexia therapy and supports parents and educators through online courses and the Dyslexia Devoted podcast.

She earned her M.Ed. in special education and has dedicated her life to helping the most struggling learners. She is a certified Wilson Dyslexia Therapist and a Wilson Credentialed Trainer. Lisa served as the Lower School Director of a school for learning differences in Palo Alto, CA before expanding Parnello Education Services in 2022. Lisa also trains and guides educators as they develop into successful special education instructors through mentoring and instructional coaching.

Credentials:
BA Elementary Education, MA Special Education, Certified Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist (C-SLDS), Wilson Credentialed Trainer, Wilson Dyslexia Therapist

Disclosures:

Financial: Lisa Parnello has a private dyslexia therapy practice, Parnello Education Services, receiving compensation as a dyslexia therapist. Parnello Education Services sells online courses for parents and educators to learn about dyslexia and learning differences. She is receiving an honorarium to present her topic. Lisa Parnello is also a contractor for Wilson Language as a program developer.

Non-Financial: Lisa is a Wilson Credentialed Trainer, but is not working in that capacity at this time.

Partnering with Parents for Literacy: Ensuring Every Child Has Access to Reading with Missy Purcell

Presentation: 

When schools and families work together, students thrive in literacy. This session equips teachers with practical strategies to engage and empower parents in their child’s reading journey. Participants will explore ways to communicate effectively, share research-based reading strategies, and provide accessible resources to ensure every child has the support they need to become a confident reader.

Time: TBD 

Prerequisites: None 

Bio:

Missy Purcell’s story, featured in the acclaimed podcast "Sold a Story," is one of resilience and advocacy. As a dedicated mother, she fought tirelessly for her dyslexic son’s right to read, navigating the complex landscape of educational support. Her experiences ignited a passion for advocacy that transformed her into a voice for families facing similar challenges.

As the co-founder of Gwinnett Advocates for Dyslexia, Missy has been committed to promoting evidence-based reading instruction in Gwinnett County. Her role as Education Chair with Decoding Dyslexia Georgia (DDGA) allows her to advocate for systemic change at the state level, working to ensure every student receives the support they need.

With over a decade of experience in elementary and middle school education, Missy specializes in inclusion and has a deep understanding of special education rules and interventions. This expertise has enabled her to guide countless families through the intricacies of IEPs, 504 plans, and the MTSS process, connecting them with vital resources and support.
Missy routinely shares her journey and the systemic issues that many families of children with special needs encounter within the education system. Her story underscores the essential role that parents play in advocating for their children’s needs, as well as the urgency for reform in how learning disabilities are addressed.

Outside of her advocacy work, Missy enjoys spending time with her husband, Mark, and their three boys—Harrison, William, and Matthew. Whether cheering on her sons at baseball games and band concerts or enjoying quiet moments with a book in hand, she finds joy in family, her two sweet dogs, Barkley and Bauer, and community.

Credentials:
Missy holds a Master of Arts in Teaching: Elementary & Miiddle School Education and holds a Certificate of Advocacy from the esteemed Vanderbuilt Kennedy Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities. 

Disclosures:

Financial: Missy Purcell is the fouder of MissPurcell Advocacy, LLC and is provided compensation for consulting with for families navigating the IEP/504 process. She is receiving an honorarium to present her topic.

Non-Financial: Missy Purcell is a member of IDA-GA and Decoding Dyslexia Georgia. This presenter does not have any additional non-financial conflicts to disclose. 

Integrating Literacy Interventions into the IEP: A Collaborative Approach with Parents with Wendy Taylor

Presentation: 

Join special education expert and educational therapist Wendy Taylor, M.Ed., ET/P, for a powerful session designed to bridge the gap between literacy intervention and IEP implementation. Discover how to embed evidence-based literacy practices into IEP goals with clarity and intention—while empowering parents as true partners in the process. This session offers actionable tools, real-world examples, and a proven framework for designing literacy-focused IEPs that are both data-driven and deeply collaborative. Walk away with a roadmap to strengthen home-school partnerships and elevate student outcomes.

Time: TBD 

Prerequisites: None 

Bio:

Wendy Taylor, M.Ed., ET/P - Educational Therapist | Educational Diagnostician | Dyslexia Reading Specialist | IEP Coach | Founder of Learning Essentials | Host of The Special Ed Strategist Podcast. Wendy Taylor is an educational therapist, educational diagnostician, dyslexia reading specialist, and IEP coach with over 20 years of experience helping students with learning differences thrive. She is the founder of Learning Essentials, a team-based practice providing dyslexia reading intervention, strategic writing support, executive function coaching, and IEP guidance. As host of The Special Ed Strategist podcast, Wendy empowers families and professionals with actionable tools to confidently navigate the special education journey.

Credentials:
Wendy Taylor holds a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education with a minor in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Special Education. She is dually certified in Maryland in General Education (Grades 6–12) and Special Education (Grades K–12). Wendy is trained in the Orton-Gillingham approach through IMSE and has additional training in Really Great Reading and the Wilson Reading System. She is a Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor and holds the ET/P (Educational Therapist/Professional) credential through the Association of Educational Therapists.

Disclosures:

Financial: Wendy Taylor is provided compensation as the founder and director of Learning Essentials, a private educational practice offering academic intervention, executive function coaching, strategic writing support, dyslexia reading intervention, and IEP coaching services. Wendy is receiving an honorarium to present her topic.

Non-Financial: Wendy Taylor is the host of The Special Ed Strategist podcast, which is not monetized. She also participates in professional networks and collaborations related to educational therapy and advocacy. She has no additional relevant non-financial relationships to disclose.