"Allison was in first grade and having troubles reading. She could read but it was very slow. She would ask her classmate to read directions for her so she wouldn’t get behind in class. She started seeing the school’s special education teacher for additional help. She was in this program for four months. The teacher said she had improved quite a bit so she released her from the program at Christmas break. We were skeptical. We hadn’t seen a big change in her reading at home.

We went for her third quarter parent teacher conference and saw she was given a timed reading test. Allison was reading 35 words per minute. We also saw that the child who was coming in for the next conference was timed reading the same test at 109 words per minute.

My husband contacted the local Sylvan office for help and we signed her up. Allison went four hours per week during the summer months. We noticed a remarkable change within the first few weeks of her taking classes. Not only were her reading skills improving but her confidence and self esteem were soaring.

Allison went into 2nd grade. About a month into the new school year, the school was hosting a Parent Information night. We knew the special education teacher had tested the 2nd graders on their reading comprehension skills. We hadn’t heard Allison’s results so we located the teacher at the information night. Our jaws dropped when she told us she didn’t test Allison. Her 2nd grade teacher said “She’s one of the best readers in the class. Testing wouldn’t be necessary for her.” She also added that, “Allison is a great helper and the teacher calls on her to help with the other students who are struggling.” My husband and I were beaming. We knew Sylvan was a wise choice.

Allison completed 100 skill hours at Sylvan in May. She’s reading at a 4th grade level. It took less than a year but the change has been remarkable. Thank you Miss Sue and Sylvan!!!"

- Amy Semenak