Dyslexia refers to a language-based learning disability, affecting as much as 15-20% of the population, according to the International Dyslexia Association. October as Dyslexia Awareness Month brings to light resources and learning support while celebrating dyslexia excellence.

Motivated by her passion for helping children to learn—and inspired by her daughter who has dyslexia—Dr. Kellie Ellis, ’01, chair of the Department of Clinical Therapeutic Programs and professor of speech-language pathology at Eastern Kentucky University (EKU), developed evidence-based practices for the treatment of childhood language disorders.

“The work by Dr. Ellis and our communication disorders program is a powerful example of how EKU’s mission comes to life,” said EKU President David McFaddin. “At EKU, we’re not only conducting and advancing research but also applying these findings in schools and communities to make a lasting difference for the next generation.”

Over the past decade, Ellis has developed the “CODE” technique through her research with struggling readers. The “C” in CODE stands for clear, emphasizing the need to provide children with dyslexia direct and explicit instruction in language rules (e.g., spelling rules). The “O” represents organized, referring to the importance of structuring instruction around systematic language patterns, such as spelling conventions and rules for prefixes and suffixes. The “D” stands for (self) discovery, underscoring the value of engaging students in exploring and uncovering language rules on their own. Finally, the “E” signifies engaging practice, highlighting the use of structured games and play-based activities that give children repeated opportunities to apply and reinforce target language rules. Ellis has implemented and studied this approach through her Word Detective Camps, held at the Model Laboratory School, EKU’s Manchester Regional Campus, and EKU’s Corbin Regional Campus.

Her clinical experience as a speech-language pathologist first sparked her interest in the subject as she noticed children struggling with speaking, listening, vocabulary and grammar, and understanding language. She aspired to explore ways to facilitate learning across the language spectrum. 

“Seeing that struggle, first with my clients and then later with my daughter, has driven my passion,” said Ellis. 

Similarly, elementary education junior Emma Manion discovered her own calling for helping children to learn. Manion saw her sister, who was diagnosed with dyslexia, face difficulties with learning and understanding, leading to her decision to become a teacher. 

“I want to be the person to help students like my sister,” said Manion. “I have lots of respect for Dr. Ellis’ research; it allows students in their developmental age to work on their writing and spelling skills.”

Second-year graduate students in EKU’s Speech-Language Pathology program aid Ellis in her dyslexia research. Students earn clinical hours through the Word Detective Camp and summer externships.

In these camps, graduate students work with small groups, allowing them to gain hands-on experience leading group therapy sessions. 

“I hope that my students leave campus knowing how to provide intervention for children with language impairment in a way that would help them learn how to listen, speak, read and write,” said Ellis. 

The Word Detective Camp has been offered through Model Laboratory School for the past five summers, with plans to continue. Ellis also started a Word Detective after-school club for students who need additional literacy support. 

A donation from the Kentucky Association of Health Plans expanded the Word Detective Camp to EKU’s Corbin Regional Campus for 2025 and the next two summers. Ellis hopes to extend the reach of the project to include parental training sessions, along with the camp. 

EKU’s Speech-Language Pathology program ranks among the best in U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best Graduate Schools. EKU offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in communication disorders, elementary education and other high-impact fields, preparing students to make a difference in classrooms, clinics and communities.

By Christina Rannells