The Story Behind the Language Comprehension Institute, MindWing Concepts, Inc., and the "Language Comprehension for Educators Course"

Founded in 1994 by speech-language pathologist Maryellen Rooney Moreau,

MindWing Concepts, Inc. is a pioneer in oral language and literacy instruction. Known for its patented and evidence-based Story Grammar Marker® (SGM®) Approach, MindWing has supported educators for over three decades through innovative tools and training that integrate language development, reading comprehension, writing, and social-emotional learning.

As MindWing’s team worked closely with educators across the globe—particularly in the wake of COVID-19—we observed a growing and urgent need: students were increasingly struggling with language comprehension and expressive language, both in academics and in social interactions.

Educators participating in our workshops echoed this concern. They consistently asked for more: more modeling, more tools, and more professional learning focused on how to explicitly teach language development and comprehension in ways that align with the Science of Reading, Structured Literacy, and real classroom practice.

In response, MindWing collaborated with experts in general education, curriculum, reading, and research to explore a guiding question:

What conditions must be in place for effective, integrated language comprehension instruction to thrive in today’s classrooms and lead to meaningful student literacy gains?

From this exploration, the Language Comprehension Institute (LCI) was founded.

At the heart of LCI is a commitment to translating research into action.

We developed a unique Implementation Formula, grounded in the Framework of Language Comprehension Competencies, and powered by the proven tools of the Story Grammar Marker® Approach.

The result is the Language Comprehension for Educators Course—a comprehensive, flexible professional learning experience that gives educators the knowledge, strategies, and resources to make language comprehension visible, teachable, and transformational.

By embedding SGM® tools and the Framework within LCI’s practical implementation model, this course empowers educators to teach students how to understand deeply, think critically, and communicate effectively —skills that are foundational to literacy and lifelong learning. and well-being.

Together, as experts in the field of language and literacy, Maryellen, Evelyn, Linda, and Sheila formed the Language Comprehension Institute and designed this the Language Comprehension for Educators Course.

Meet your Instuctors for the Language Comprehension for Educators Course:

Maryellen Rooney Moreau, M.Ed. CCC-SLP

Maryellen is a highly accomplished professional with over 50 years of experience in Speech-Language Pathology, Professional Learning, and Classroom Instruction. She is the founder and president of MindWing Concepts, Inc. and the creator of the internationally recognized Story Grammar Marker® approach. Maryellen is widely known for her engaging and impactful professional development, equipping educators with the tools and strategies to help children think, communicate, and learn.

Dr. Evelyn Russo

Evelyn is a seasoned educator with over 40 years of experience in literacy development, professional learning, curriculum, and instruction. Currently serving as Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Personnel for Orange Public Schools. Her extensive background includes roles as an adjunct professor at Sacred Heart and as a research affiliate with Haskins Laboratories Her work is grounded in a deep commitment to improving student achievement by advancing teacher knowledge and strengthening instructional practice.

Linda Lafontaine, M.S. CAGS, CCC-SLP

Linda is a highly experienced professional with over 40 years of expertise in Speech-Language Pathology, Reading, Dyslexia, and Professional Learning. She was principal of a private placement school for children with dyslexia, Developmental Language Disorder (DLD), and autism. Throughout her career, Linda has remained committed to the practical application of evidence-based methods and tools—always responsive to the individual needs of the students in front of her.

Sheila Moreau, M.Ed.

Sheila is a skilled professional with expertise in professional learning, training development, and family literacy. As the daughter of Maryellen Moreau, she has worked alongside her at MindWing Concepts, Inc. for over 20 years, training thousands of educators around the world in the areas of oral language development, reading comprehension, writing, and social-emotional learning. Sheila also leads the coordination and design of professional learning opportunities, ensuring that educators are equipped with practical tools and meaningful support.

Language Comprehension Institute's Advisory Board

LCI's distinguished Advisory Board of researchers, specialists, educators, and clinicians to provide feedback and review.

Dr. Susan Brady

Research on Language and Literacy; Application to Practice

Dr. Maureen Ruby

Social-Emotional Learning and Reading Research

Dr. Donna Merritt

Speech and Langauge Pathology

Dr. Carolyn West

Reading, Educational Psychology, Mindfulness

Angela Wheeler

Family Literacy, Homeschooling & Worldschooling Consultant

Gerry Moreau, M.Ed. CAGS

Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Clinical Services Leader

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