Advocacy: Advancing Evidence-Based Reading Instruction

The Orton-Gillingham Dyslexia Center (OGDC) is committed to advancing the Science of Reading and ensuring that every child has access to effective, evidence-based literacy instruction.

Our vision is that every teacher preparation program in the nation equips future educators with a deep understanding of how children learn to read and the instructional practices proven to support reading success. When teachers are trained in the science of reading, they are better prepared to teach all students—including those with dyslexia—to read, write, and spell with confidence.

OGDC supports legislation and educational initiatives that promote comprehensive training in evidence-based reading instruction for educators. We believe that teacher preparation is the foundation of lasting change. Every teacher deserves the knowledge and tools necessary to meet the literacy needs of every learner.

This movement is grounded in decades of scientific research. In 2000, the National Reading Panel, commissioned by the U.S. Congress, reviewed extensive research on reading instruction and identified five essential components of effective literacy instruction:

• Phonemic awareness

• Phonics

• Fluency

• Vocabulary

• Reading comprehension

These findings continue to serve as a foundation for evidence-based reading instruction and the Science of Reading. OGDC advocates for the widespread implementation of these research-based practices so that every child has the opportunity to become a successful reader.