Reading Instruction That Clicks. Confidence That Lasts.

I design personalized literacy pathways for learners navigating dyslexia, those showing signs of reading challenges, and typical readers striving for excellence. Using the Orton-Gillingham approach, instruction replaces frustration with structured, sensory-rich learning to build confidence. 

HOW I CAN HELP

Orton-Gillingham Instruction for Reading, Spelling, and Writing

A woman smiling at a young girl during a classroom activity. The girl has long brown hair in a ponytail and is holding a green object. They are sitting at a white table with educational materials and colorful papers. The background shows bookshelves, posters, and a glass door leading to another room.

I provide one-on-one and small group tutoring using the Orton-Gillingham (OG) approach, a structured literacy method designed for students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. Together, we systematically uncover how English works, so your child learns the “why” behind reading and spelling instead of guessing. I work with children ages 3 to 12 and tailor every lesson to the individual learner. When instruction meets children where they are on their own learning journey, the possibilities are endless.

What We Work On

  • Phonemic awareness: hearing and working with the individual sounds in words

  • Decoding: using letter-sound relationships (phonics) and corresponding speech sound (phonemes) to sound out unfamiliar written words.

  • Encoding: spelling words using sound-letter patterns and spelling rules

  • Syllable division patterns: breaking longer words into manageable parts

  • Morphology: using prefixes, suffixes, and roots to understand and build words

  • Fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension: reading smoothly and understanding what is read

WHAT MAKES OG INSTRUCTION DIFFERENT

Multisensory

Your child sees, hears, says, and writes or touches letters and sounds, using tools like sand trays, textured tiles, and air-writing. This builds strong connections in the brain.

Diagnostic & Prescriptive

No pre-packaged program. Each lesson is shaped around your child’s profile, reinforcing gaps while moving ahead on strengths.

Direct & Explicit

Every sound, rule, and pattern is taught clearly and directly.

Sequential & Cumulative

Lessons move from simple to complex, and each one builds on what your child has already mastered.

Progress You Can See

I track your child’s performance during every lesson and use regular diagnostic assessments to make sure skills are mastered before we move on. You’ll receive clear, regular updates so you always know what we’re working on and how your child is doing.

Children's hands arranging green flashcards with lowercase letters on a wooden table.
Children's hands working on a phoneme grapheme mapping mat with pink playdough letters and blue written words, on a white table.
A blue game board with the words 'VOWEL SWAP' at the top left corner, and the words 'Player 1' and 'Player 2' at the bottom left and right corners, respectively. The board displays columns with various words featuring vowels, such as 'cat,' 'bit,' 'met,' 'pan,' 'top,' 'hit,' 'bad,' and 'beg,' with some corresponding wooden game pieces placed on certain words and a hand holding a wooden piece near the middle of the board.

Find the Right Fit for Your Family

During the school day

I’ll work with you, your child, and your independent school to find the best time for focused, intensive instruction.

Homeschool Support

Research-based reading intervention tailored to your child’s exact needs during your school hours.

After-school lessons

Multisensory, targeted lessons that support or enrich reading, writing, and spelling.

Inquire about non-OG reading and writing sessions for students looking to fine tune their skills or get ahead!

A blue graphic resembling a burst or explosion with radial lines.

SUCCESS AT EVERY STEP

  • Independently Owned 

  • Background and knowledge as parent of dyslexic child, classroom teacher, and independent literacy specialist 

  • Intentional instruction targeting individual needs 

  • Meaningful relationship built to help your child succeed

  • Clear communication for family and school team

Why Choose Decoding Success? 

A child's hand holding a pink pencil writing on a lined classroom worksheet with words and pictures. Various educational materials, including color-coded word cards, a yellow word strip, and small containers of alphabet letter decals, are spread out on a white table.

ABOUT ME

Elissa Mauke, M. Ed

Elissa Mauke

I know this journey from both sides.

I’m Elissa Mauke, a literacy tutor and specialist with more than 15 years of experience as a classroom educator. I’m also the parent of a child with dyslexia. I know what it’s like to worry, to search for answers, and to want someone who truly understands.

That experience shapes everything I do. Struggling to read is never a lack of intelligence or effort. My instruction is built around how the brain processes sounds, language, and print, so children can strengthen their reading, spelling, writing, and comprehension and see themselves as capable learners.

I am in an active practicum toward Orton Gillingham Associate Certification. As an independent specialist, I get to know each child and family personally and keep communication open with you and your school team.

My goal is simple: to support you and be the guide you’ve been looking for.

Trusted by Educators and Families

Julie Schlossinger, Associate Head of Renbrook School + Lower School Head
JSchlossinger@Renbrook.org

Linda Wood, Director of Student Support Services
LWood@Renbrook.org

Lizzy Tiller Roble, Parent
ltiller@tillerfoods.com

Contact Elissa

860-965-3668

emaukeliteracy@gmail.com

Let’s Connect!

Fill out the form below. I’m looking forward to hearing from you!