science of reading
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Teaching the Six Syllable Types: Building Blocks for Reading Success
Discover the six syllable types and how to teach them with clear examples, word lists, and research-based strategies. Strengthen decoding, spelling, fluency,…
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A 70 Percent Increase in Dyslexia Identification: What the Numbers Tell Us Key Takeaways
2018–2019: 194,225 students in Texas identified with dyslexia 2023–2024: 329,247 students in Texas identified with dyslexia Change: 70 percent increase in five…
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Myths and Truths About Dyslexia: A Teacher’s Perspective
As an elementary educator and dyslexia interventionist, I often speak with parents and colleagues who have questions, concerns, or misconceptions about dyslexia.…
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What Is Structured Literacy?
As educators and parents seek effective solutions for struggling readers, one approach consistently rises to the top—Structured Literacy. This evidence-based method supports…
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The Power of Microschools for Students with Dyslexia
For children with dyslexia, the traditional classroom can present daily challenges that affect not only reading and writing but also self-confidence and…
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Why I Believe Every Child Can Learn to Read
As a reading teacher and a parent, I’ve seen firsthand the frustration, tears, and self-doubt that can come when a child struggles…
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How the Brain Builds Reading Fluency Over Time
Reading fluency is more than just reading quickly. It’s about reading smoothly, accurately, and with expression. Fluency is what allows readers to…
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Decoding the Difference: Sight Words vs. High-Frequency Words in Early Reading
A crucial distinction for educators and parents to understand in the journey of teaching a child to read is the difference between…
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About Texas Reading Teacher
MaryEllen Gibson – Texas Reading Teacher
MaryEllen Gibson is a dedicated Texas Reading Teacher with a strong foundation in both education and business. She earned her undergraduate degree from California State University Long Beach and received her Teaching Credential from Concordia University Irvine. She also holds an MBA with an emphasis in Marketing and is CLAD certified in California. MaryEllen is ELIC trained, a Reading Academy graduate, Reading by Design certified, Science of Teaching Reading certified, and Gifted and Talented certified through the Texas Education Agency.
With nearly three decades of experience in education, MaryEllen brings not only professional expertise but also a personal passion to her work. As a mother of two daughters—both of whom work in the Texas Senate—she understands the challenges many families face. Her youngest daughter struggled with reading early on, giving MaryEllen firsthand insight into the journey of supporting a child with reading difficulties. Today, she is proud to share that her daughter not only overcame those challenges but is also a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin. Hook ’em!
MaryEllen has been married to her husband Steve for 28 years and remains deeply committed to empowering young readers and supporting families through structured literacy and targeted intervention



