Closing the Reading Gap: How The Prentice School Fights the Matthew Effect

Have you heard of the Matthew Effect? It's the idea that "the rich get richer, and the poor get poorer." In education, this term is often used to describe a troubling trend in reading development. Strong readers get better as they read more, gaining vocabulary and knowledge, while struggling readers, who often avoid reading, fall further behind (Dyslexia Canada). Over time, this widens the gap between the two groups, making it harder for struggling readers to catch up.

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Why Do Struggling Readers Fall Behind?

The Matthew Effect highlights a harsh reality: proficient readers build momentum by continually increasing their vocabulary and background knowledge through regular reading. In contrast, children who struggle with reading may avoid reading altogether, missing critical opportunities to improve their vocabulary and background knowledge - key components in reading. This creates a compounding cycle where good readers keep excelling, and poor readers face increasing challenges.

Breaking the Cycle at The Prentice School

At The Prentice School, we’re rewriting the story for students with dyslexia, ADHD, and other learning differences. We recognize the challenges of the Matthew Effect, and our comprehensive, accessible English Language Arts (ELA) program is designed to close the gap.

For our elementary students, we offer three daily English classes, each tailored to meet students at their level and ensure no one is left behind:

• Writing: Focusing on developing essential writing skills with personalized support.
• Orton-Gillingham Instruction: A proven, multisensory approach to teaching reading and phonics.
• Accessible English Language Arts (ELA): Enriching students’ vocabulary and background knowledge while they build foundational reading skills.

How We Make a Difference

Our accessible ELA curriculum ensures that even as students work to strengthen their reading abilities, they don’t miss out on learning the vocabulary and knowledge that are critical for academic success. By targeting instruction to each child’s unique needs, we create an environment where every student can thrive.

This daily, targeted approach enriches learning, levels the playing field, and ensures that students at The Prentice School are empowered to overcome the challenges of the Matthew Effect. No other school in Orange County combines personalized instruction with such a robust, evidence-based curriculum designed specifically for students with dyslexia and ADHD.

Let’s Rewrite the Story Together

If you’re seeking a school that truly understands how to meet the needs of diverse learners and empower them to succeed, we’d love to connect. At The Prentice School, we’re not just closing the reading gap—we’re helping students rewrite their futures.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can make a difference for your child!