04/14/2026
In 1981 Dr. Bergman received a phone call from his first-grade son’s private school saying that his son needed to be tested for dyslexia. The caller explained that the first-grader had been removed from the reading class because he was frustrated and acting out.
Finishing her assessment, the former head diagnostician of a large school district told Dr. Bergman, “He shows some dyslexic tendencies, but he is so bright, attentive, and motivated that he will compensate.” Dr. Bergman responded, "Those are nice things you are saying about my son, but if he is so bright that he’ll compensate, shouldn't we be seeing some compensation starting by now?" She hesitated and then said she “hadn’t thought of it that way.” In her final report, she said he had “mild dyslexia” and recommended a local synthetic phonics program.
Very slow progress in that program over the next four years led Dr. Bergman to become involved in reading research and to open a non-profit center to teach students to read. He developed what is now being called Explicit Instruction.
Do you have a friend whose child finds reading difficult? Invite them to learn more about solutions at the following Information Night.
Reserve your place today (to help us plan refreshments) by email to [email protected] or by phone call to 713-784-7373.
