Dyslexia Training Specialist Spotlight: Progress Over Perfection

Courtney Marlow has always believed in the power of education to change lives. After more than two decades supporting students with intensive reading needs, she turned a longtime dream into reality by joining Wilson® as a dyslexia training specialist. Today, she partners with educators to help them bring the science of reading to life in their classrooms—supporting the kind of progress that leads to real confidence, real skills, and real smiles.

Tell us about your education experience prior to joining Wilson.

I taught special education in public schools for 22 years, working with students in K-3 and 7-8, and serving as a district academic specialist. I also had the opportunity to teach the Wilson Reading System® (WRS) and Just Words® to seventh and eighth graders.

What brought you to Wilson?

Ever since I first learned about Wilson’s curricula, I knew I wanted to one day work for Wilson. When an opportunity opened, I went for it. I value that Wilson is not only grounded in the science of reading but also has a heart for teachers.

How does your role contribute to achieving our vision of “literacy for all?”

I have the privilege of helping teachers achieve literacy success for students with the most intensive needs in reading. It’s rewarding work that makes a real difference.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Helping teachers and students reach that lightbulb moment—seeing how WRS is improving a student’s reading and spelling abilities—is the most rewarding part of my work.

What is the greatest success story you’ve encountered?

One of my WRS Level I teachers shared that when she asked her practicum student the meaning of a word in ELA class, the student said he didn’t know the meaning—but he knew how to spell it! It was such a proud moment of progress.

Tell us why “Wilson Works.”

Wilson programs are grounded in the science of reading and meet both students and teachers where they are, helping to close reading gaps with effective, research-based practices.

What sets Wilson programs apart from other foundational literacy programs you’ve encountered?

The professional learning and ongoing support that Wilson provides to teachers truly sets us apart.

What aspects of Wilson programs do educators most often rave about?

Educators often praise the coaching support we provide, especially through the WRS Level I practicum experience.

What have you heard from educators about our programs’ impact on student progress?

Many WRS Level I participants have been amazed at the growth their practicum students made—even while the educators themselves were still learning the program!

What is the best resource Wilson provides to make educators’ lives easier?

The Student Notebook Answer Keys are a huge help for teachers.

What is your favorite resource for targeted practice?

I love the Word Card sort templates for Part 3 found in the Resource section of the WRS Learning Community.

What suggestions do you have for educators implementing WRS for the first time?

Dive into the Lesson Planning & Execution section of the Instructor Manual—it’s a great guide for ensuring fidelity with WRS procedures.

What have you found to be the single greatest contributor to successful program implementation?

Patience and perseverance. It’s about progress over perfection.

Let’s have a little fun! What was your favorite book to read as a kid?

The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare

What did you want to be when you grew up?

A nurse or a teacher. I get lightheaded around needles, so teaching won out.

If you could be a literary character, who would you be?

An older Anne of Green Gables