Based on more than three decades of data, the Wilson Reading System® (WRS) is our flagship intensive intervention program providing the foundational skills that make reading and spelling success achievable to all. The specialized Structured Literacy curriculum is delivered individually or in small groups by a certified WRS-Certified Instructor like Jamie Kamensky. We asked Jamie to share a little bit about her experience implementing the program.
I’m Jamie Kamensky. I teach at Kirtland Local Schools in Kirtland, Ohio. I’ve been teaching there for eight years and have 13 years of experience as an intervention specialist. This is my second year teaching WRS.
WRS is inspirational because it aligns with my personal journey. I struggled with reading as a child and was placed in the “low group” in first grade. I’ll never forget my teacher saying, “Oh, you’re in the ‘others’ group.” That stuck with me. Now, being able to step in and help students who struggle with reading like I did is incredibly fulfilling. Once students see their own growth, they take off, and it’s amazing to witness.
WRS stands out because it’s structured, rigorous, and proven to work. One of the key aspects of WRS is that it teaches kids the “why” behind the reading rules. It’s not just about memorization. When students understand the reasoning, it clicks for them. They go from rote learning to truly comprehending the material, and that’s when the real progress happens.
Over the summer, I started WRS with a little girl I’ve been working with since kindergarten, when COVID hit and the world shut down, making it difficult for her to get consistent instruction. We blew through the first step, meeting three times a week, and her progress has been nothing short of incredible. This once non-reader is now mastering suffixes and bonus letters.
Witnessing her growth—from someone who struggled to communicate clearly to a confident reader—has been a humbling and heartwarming experience. Seeing her smile as she reads makes my heart swell with pride, knowing that reading has opened up a whole new world for her. It’s moments like these that remind me of the power of literacy.
The program opens doors for students who don’t always have the easiest path. For example, I had a student who was shy and lacked confidence. But after starting WRS, she began raising her hand in class. She suddenly had the confidence and ability to show that she knew more than people realized. It’s amazing to see that transformation.
The online community is incredibly supportive. You can ask questions on discussion boards and receive help from others. There’s this real sense that “wow, these are genuine people.” Attending the WRS Certified Teacher Conference reinforced that sense of community. Everyone genuinely believes in the program and wants to get better each year. If I have a question, my director or others within Wilson are quick to help. It’s a true network of support.