Student Success Stories From Parents

Hayden Wike's Story by Lesa Wike

I am a parent of two boys. I am also an elementary school teacher. Both my boys were exposed to literature and read to numerous times each day. However, my youngest son (diagnosed with ADHD) was unable to read when he reached first grade. He could not recognize his name and could most certainly not write anything.

During the first grade testing process he was identified as a non-reader. I knew that, but it was quite hard to understand. I had tried to teach him from the time he was born. My other son never had any problems with letters, sounds, or words. Thank goodness for the Reading Recovery program and a wonderful person, Teresa Garrett. She picked him up immediately for her program, and began working with him. I know her sessions with him were intense, but he seemed to be improving daily and did love her and her class. He was excited about books for the first time in his life. He brought books home from her classroom to read, he brought books that he made home to read, and he looked for things to read in our house.

I am not sure how Mrs. Garrett did it, but I am so very thankful she did. My son's entire life was turned around. His self-esteem was raised immediately when he could recognize and write his name. When he began actually reading, we could not stop him. His love for books has grown immensely. He has become an advanced reader. I can without a doubt say that Reading Recovery changed our lives.

On a professional note, Mrs. Garrett is the kindest, most sincere person I know. She is always willing to help with any situation. She is an excellent teacher -- the epitome of the word teacher. We need to recognize Reading Recovery teachers -- my child's life and my family's life was changed by this one, wonderful teacher. Being a teacher myself, I know how difficult this can be. I salute the Reading Recovery teachers, and say “Thank you for a job well done and keep up the great work.”

Photo: Hayden in 2008