Pickard Literacy Studio
Effective reading instruction from Kindergarten to grade 8. Based in Saskatoon SK.
Who We Are
Pickard Literacy Studio was founded in 2022 to serve students that have difficulty learning to read. We believe in accessible and emotionally sound learning, grounded in well-researched instructional strategies. We go beyond traditional tutoring services! PLS has an intentionally small cliental to ensure proper progress monitoring and lesson management.
At PLS, positive relationships are essential. We know that students learn best when they are valued and appreciated for their unique interests and abilities. Lessons are designed around each individual student, using assessment data to drive decision making.
About the owner
Meet Courtney
Courtney is passionate about literacy! She has a Bachelors of Education from the University of Saskatchewan and is a Certified Special Education Teacher. She has experience teaching in the classroom and resource room in public and private settings. Courtney has spent years dedicated to the Science of Reading and literacy instruction. She has taken courses in the Orton Gillingham Method and is experienced in structured literacy practices.
Courtney recognizes the complex nature of learning to read and approaches the instructional process thoughtfully and with sensitivity. She understands that many students have not experienced success in the classroom and with that self-esteem can suffer. While learning to read, write and spell is our goal, comfort, confidence and a love of reading are of great importance to Courtney.
Courtney’s background in special education ensures success for students with a variety of needs including learning disabilities, ADHD and Autism. Courtney is an approved tutor through the Autism Service Providers of Saskatchewan. No diagnosis is required to register.
Services
Private Lessons
Lessons take place for one hour, twice a week. Attend in person or online. PLS accepts students from across the province. Lessons are diagnostic and prescriptive, targeting your child’s specific needs. All new students begin with an initial assessment to gain insight into your child’s reading skills. Follow up assessments are conducted to monitor progress. A parent report follows each major assessment. Please note that the majority of lessons take place during school hours.
Grade Level Assessment
Interested in knowing if your child measures up to his or her grade level? Report cards and parent conferences may not always offer the clarification and certainty that you desire. This assessment is one hour in length and includes a parent report. The report details your child’s skills as a reader and breaks down the key areas of literacy.
Book Club
Book Club is a once a week group that gets children socializing and learning! The group focuses on comprehension, oral reading fluency and vocabulary development. If you have a reluctant reader, this group is perfect! Groups are small to ensure successful social interactions and improved reading skills. Book Club is hosted throughout the year in blocks. Different grade groupings are invited to join during certain times of the year. Reach out for more details!
The Science of Reading
The Science of Reading is a body of research that has evolved over more that 40 years. The research is a combination of psychology, cognitive neuroscience, and linguistics that evaluates the most effective ways of learning to read. One of the methods that embodies the Science of Reading research is Orton Gillingham. The OG method is multi-sensory, explicit and systematic. All children benefit from this type of instruction, especially those with Dyslexia and other learning disabilities. PLS strives to provide the best instruction for students, adapting continuously to meet each child’s needs.
Pickard Literacy Studio 