Small Change, Big Impact

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Small Change, Big Impact

  • January 28, 2026
  • Posted by: Rebecca Lichtenberg
  • Category: Wow Story
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~written by Ann Zum Brunnen, LSEM teacher at St. Paul Lutheran School in Catonsville, MD~

I have been working with a student for a year and a half on spelling.  It has been very hard for him to succeed in learning his spelling words. It finally got to the point where he said that he did not like to take spelling tests, saying, “Why? I am just going to fail” and he was right. He would get 5 to 7 out of 25 scores even after studying.  Then one day last spring, we were working together to practice his spelling. I would have him spell the words, writing them out in ABC.  He started to spell them out loud.  I asked him, “Is this easier for you?”  He said, “Yes, I can see the words.”  We then started doing verbal spelling tests, and his performance really took off, getting around 17 to 19 out of 25 scores. What a confidence builder!   

Now fast forward to this year, his 5th grade year.  He has a newfound confidence, and he is now trying his written spelling tests and getting high scores by saying the words quietly to himself.  He is so proud that this is working for him.  It has been wonderful seeing the smile on his face on spelling test days instead of a look of disappointment that he could not do it.  

I hope this puts a smile on everyone’s face to keep doing the jobs we are here to do!