Although it is a fairly new term, the science of reading is actually 50 years old! It began with scientific research about the best ways children learn to read and write. This body of knowledge has continued to grow as linguistics, cognitive scientists, education psychologists, and neuroscientists add to the research.

Lisa was first introduced to the science of reading in 2000 through the Report of the National Reading Panel.

As a Literacy Coach, Lisa was schooled in the five pillars of reading: phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension. She visited classrooms and provided lessons in phonemic awareness and phonics. At the beginning of the year, her kindergarteners were the lowest in the district in letter sound recognition. By the end of May, they were at the top!

Later, Lisa studied at the University of Minnesota to learn more and earn her reading license. She became a reading interventionist (1st – 8th) and taught an Orton-Gillingham-based curriculum for foundational skills and close reading strategies for comprehension.

Now as a private tutor, Lisa tailors her lessons for each child. She is patient, encouraging, and fun!

Lisa has tutored my granddaughter for about 8 months. She is very patient with her and has a great insight to what works. She is kind, fun, organized and a great teacher! It is amazing to see my granddaughter’s ability to read improve and her confidence flourish!
– Janet

Lisa helped my daughter make dramatic improvements in her reading ability and confidence! Her gentle style helps build wonderful relationships with her students and makes learning fun!
– Katie 

Lisa helped my kindergartner get excited about reading. She tailored his work to his capabilities and interests. We had a great experience.
– Lisa

Lisa has tutored two of our children. With her help, they have both grown exponentially in their ability to read and write and also their love of reading. She is easy to communicate with, understanding, and patient. The girls love her, and we are forever grateful for her help.
– Nikki

I love her activities! I love her games!
– Mia (8)

Lisa helped me with my reading. I learned a lot and was picked to read to the entire fifth grade and their parents!
– Isaac (11)

How many lessons a week do you require?
Two lessons a week are the minimum when starting with the program. Sometimes we change to once a week depending on the progress of the child.

What are your rates?
I charge $60 a lesson (50 minutes). Partial scholarships are available.

Am I allowed to watch?
You are always more than welcome to watch and some parents find it very useful.

What happens if my child is sick or unable to attend a session?
I am very flexible and will not charge you for the lesson if you contact me in advance. If the absences become habitual, then make-up sessions are required. 

Do you work on spelling?
The students practice spelling the words as they learn them. 

Do you have any additional practice I can do with my child at home?
Additional practice will be provided upon request.

Do you teach writing?
Yes! I can help students with homework assignments and their own creative projects, such as poetry and Shutterfly books.

Have you worked with students who need help in speech?
Yes! I have a variety of games and ways of helping children practice letter sounds and words.

Do you work in the summer and with homeschoolers?
Yes! If your child needs a four/five day a week intensive, that can accelerate the progress. Prices are reduced if you choose this option.

How do your students do with the online format?
It has surprised me how well tutoring can work online. I’ve worked with students between 4 and 34 year-olds on Zoom. I develop close relationships with them as we learn and laugh together.