About Us
Stillman Academy is an educational service specializing in:
Tutoring for students with dyslexia or literacy struggles
Experiential learning opportunities including hands-on activities and field trips
Summer camps focused on reading, writing, and exploration
All instruction is grounded in the Slingerland Approach
At Stillman Academy, our approach to teaching is deeply rooted in the structured and sequential Slingerland Method. This multisensory approach to literacy instruction has allowed us to transform reading and writing outcomes for countless students, especially those in special education. By integrating these proven strategies, we empower each learner to develop strong literacy skills in a supportive, engaging environment.
We are equally committed to providing rich experiential learning opportunities. In the tradition of our namesake, Bessie Stillman—who championed the value of field trips—we incorporate hands-on experiences such as field trips, cultural projects like Chinese dumpling making, and creative activities like origami. We look forward to expanding into areas like video editing and computer game design, ensuring our students gain practical, real-world skills.
William Patterson, our founder and CEO, is a passionate educator recognized for his dedication to student success. After years of seeking better literacy outcomes for students in special education, he discovered the Slingerland Approach and never looked back. Now part of the faculty senate at the Slingerland Institute, he is committed to helping other teachers earn their certifications and spread this transformative method. William also serves on the board of directors for the International Dyslexia Association’s Northern California chapter.
Prior to opening his private practice, William worked as a Resource Specialist for the San Francisco Unified School District, an English teacher for the Abu Dhabi Education Council, and a Varying Exceptionality Teacher for Dade County Public Schools. William was introduced to multisensory structured literacy while attending Slingerland Summer School in San Francisco as a teacher participant. He is also a member of the Community Advisory Committee for Special Education for San Francisco Unified School District.
Jacquelyn Lai is a recent graduate of UC San Diego with a B.S. in Cognitive Science, specializing in neuroscience. Her academic background focuses on how the brain learns and processes language, attention, and memory—insights she uses to support students with diverse learning needs using individualized, brain-informed strategies. She specializes in reading and writing support, creating a structured, encouraging learning environment tailored to each student’s cognitive profile and learning style. Her goal is to help students build both academic skills and lasting confidence in their
ability to learn and grow.
Outside of tutoring, she enjoys Polynesian dancing, learning new languages, and delving into fantasy and sci-fi novels.
Brittany Wilson is a dedicated educator with over 12 years of experience supporting young learners through a blend of Montessori principles, early intervention strategies, and child-centered pedagogy. She brings to Stillman Academy a strong commitment to nurturing the whole child—emphasizing emotional, social, and academic development through observation, responsiveness, and trust-building. Her leadership background includes guiding staff, managing classrooms, and fostering inclusive communities in both public and private Montessori programs in Wisconsin and California. Currently pursuing graduate studies in Counseling Psychology at Golden Gate University, Brittany continues to integrate mental health awareness and emotional literacy into her work. With a foundation in Conservation Biology from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, she also values the connections between education, equity, and ecology. Known for her creativity, calm presence, and deep listening, Brittany strives to create safe, inclusive, and joyful learning spaces where every student can thrive.
We've been using the amazing tutoring talents of William Patterson, the Stillman Academy founder, for over two years now. - JC