Valdine Bjornson, FIT/AOGPE

Professional Bio

My speciality is working with students who learn differently.
Some of my students are diagnosed with Specific Learning Disorders (Learning Disabilities) under the categories of Reading (Dyslexia), Writing or Math (Dyscalculia).

All of my students are struggling with academic performance especially in the areas of reading, writing, spelling and/or math.

I can help support students with all areas of learning including study strategies, memory techniques, reading, spelling, composition and math - using approaches that are specifically geared for students with learning disabilities.
Currently I am pursuing a Doctorate in Education (Leading Language and Literacy) from the Werklund School of Education (University of Calgary).

I also have:
Master in Education (University of Manitoba), Language and Literacy, taking specialty courses to attain 'Reading Clinician' specialization
Special Education Certificate (University of Manitoba)
Certificate in Teaching English as a Second Language (University of Manitoba)
Master of Arts (Graduate Certificate) in International Education (SIT Graduate Institute, Vermont, USA)
Post-Baccalaureate in Education, (University of Manitoba), Guidance and Counselling

I have a variety of training focusing upon working with students who have dyslexia and specific learning disabilities including:
Fellow-in-Training (FIT/AOGPE), Orton-Gillingham Approach (Academy of Orton Gillingham Practitioners and Educators)
Certified member (C/AOGPE), Orton-Gillingham Approach (Academy of Orton Gillingham Practitioners and Educators)
Neuropsychology of Specific Learning Disabilities (Dr. S. Feifer)
Neuropsychology of Learning Disabilities (Dr. A Henley)
Certified Dyslexia Therapist, International Dyslexia Association Accreditation and Certification
Multi-Sensory Math Certification (currently training)
Barton training and practice
FAST training and practice
LiPS, Visualizing and Verbalizing, Seeing Stars with Lindamood Bell
Screening for Dyslexia Training, with Susan Barton through the University of San Diego