I started writing this blog years ago when I first began learning about what is now often being referred to as “structured literacy”. At the time, I had just finished taking my Orton Gillingham Associate Level course in Toronto. My mind was blown. I felt that I had spent years being considered a “literacy expert” in the school system, yet I knew virtually nothing about the English language. The course was an eye opener. I started this blog as a way to share my learning, and offer resources that could be used in classrooms. I called the blog, “Along the learning journey”, as I felt I still had a tremendous amount to learn!
Now, many years later, I still feel that I have a tremendous amount to learn! As I continue to learn, I am seeing the landscape of literacy instruction changing in Ontario and across Canada. The Ontario Human Rights Commission completed the “Right to Read” inquiry and released their report and recommendations in early 2022. This report is already having a profound impact on how we teach reading in this province. It is an exciting (and daunting) time to be an educator. It is humbling to look back on the years when I used to consider myself an “expert” in literacy instruction. I’d like to think that I have learned a lot since then – not only about the English language itself and what research says about how best to teach it, but also about myself as a learner. I have come to embrace the fact that learning isn’t static. Even now, when I look back on some of my earlier blog posts about structured literacy, I can see how my perspective has evolved and changed.
As time goes on and I continue to learn, I hope to keep adding to this blog. I appreciate feedback, so please feel free to reach out and let me know your thoughts.
I welcome you to join me on this learning journey!
Lee-Ann
Along the learning journey 