Wilson Language Training Joins Forces with Dr. Elsa Cárdenas-Hagan to Expand Literacy Solutions for Multilingual Learners

The acquisition of Valley Speech marks a pivotal step in the literacy movement, combining decades of expertise to ensure every child—regardless of language background—has access to effective instruction.

OXFORD, Mass., Oct. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Wilson Language Training (Wilson), a nationally recognized leader in structured literacy and dyslexia intervention, today announced its acquisition of Valley Speech, a leading provider of evidence-based literacy instruction for multilingual learners founded by Dr. Elsa Cárdenas-Hagan. This strategic partnership represents a powerful convergence of two mission-driven organizations united in their commitment to achieving literacy for all.

Today's educators face growing challenges in providing comprehensive literacy pathways for multilingual learners. According to 2024 NAEP assessment data, multilingual fourth-grade students scored, on average, 34 points lower than their peers and 53 points below proficiency. The programs offered by Valley Speech and Wilson are designed to give educators the tools to meet the unique needs of multilingual learners through rigorous, research-driven instruction.

"Our mission has always been to equip educators with the tools they need to deliver effective literacy instruction to every student," said Keri Dixon, CEO of Wilson. "By joining forces with Valley Speech, we are aligning decades of expertise in structured literacy and biliteracy so teachers can better support learners with diverse needs and help all students build the strong foundations they need for lifelong success."

Valley Speech's flagship program, Esperanza, delivers structured literacy instruction through a multisensory, sequential, and systematic approach to achieve Spanish literacy—giving students with dyslexia a strong foundation in their first language while supporting the transfer of skills to English. Rooted in the same instructional philosophy, the Wilson Reading System® (WRS) offers an explicit, multisensory approach in English for students in grades 2–12.

"Wilson and Valley Speech share a steadfast belief in the power of literacy to transform lives," said Deanna Fogarty, Vice President and Head of Reading Science at Wilson Language Training. "By uniting our programs and expertise, we are helping ensure every child—regardless of language background or learning profile—receives effective literacy instruction."

"We are thrilled to team up with Wilson to ensure that all multilingual learners have access to instruction that reflects both their language and learning needs," said Dr. Elsa Cárdenas-Hagan, founder of Valley Speech. "Together, we are advancing a national conversation around Structured Multiliteracy—ensuring that multilingual students, including those with dyslexia, are fully supported."

For more information, visit the Wilson Language Training booth (#406) at The Reading League Conference, October 8–10, or go to www.wilsonlanguage.com.

About Wilson Language Training

For nearly forty years, Wilson has advanced its vision of "Literacy for All" through multimodal structured literacy programs and professional learning backed by a commitment to the Science of Reading and effective implementation. The Wilson Reading System® (WRS), Fundations®, and Just Words® programs support more than 3 million students, building a solid foundation for beginning readers and reducing the literacy gap for struggling students, including those with dyslexia. Wilson's certifications result in Wilson® Dyslexia Practitioner and Therapist credentials, which have been awarded Accreditation Plus by the International Dyslexia Association (IDA). Nearly 300,000 educators have participated in Wilson courses and workshops, and 25,000 have earned WRS Level I Certification.

About Valley Speech

Founded by Dr. Elsa Cárdenas-Hagan, Valley Speech is dedicated to advancing literacy for multilingual learners through evidence-based programs, professional development, and thought leadership. Its flagship program, Esperanza, provides structured literacy instruction for Spanish-speaking students with dyslexia, empowering educators with tools rooted in the Science of Reading to ensure equitable outcomes for all learners.

SOURCE Wilson Language Training