Location: Lewisville, TX
Education: B.A, M. Ed, CALT, LDT
Years Experience Teaching: 21
Years Experience In Dyslexia: 6
Teaching Experience
I have over 21 years of experience in elementary education. For the first 13 years of my career, I taught 2nd and 3rd grade as a self-contained classroom teacher, providing comprehensive instruction across all subject areas. I later joined the campus intervention team, where I supported English language learners and delivered targeted reading and math interventions for students in grades K–5. During the final five years of my career in public education, I served as a dyslexia therapist, providing specialized instruction to students with reading difficulties. After retiring from public education, I transitioned to private practice as a dyslexia therapist, where I continue my passion for helping students become confident and successful readers.
Professional Affiliations
ALTA (Academic Language Therapy Association)
Licensed Dyslexia Therapist in the state of Texas
Programs Trained In
Take Flight: A Comprehensive Intervention for Students with Dyslexia
Build: A K-1 Early Reading Intervention
Age Range You Feel Most Comfortable With:
All ages.
Why did you decide to become a CALT?
While working with struggling readers, I realized that many of my students continued to face challenges despite receiving intervention. This motivated me to explore evidence-based methods for teaching reading and to deepen my understanding of the science behind how students learn to read. Through my research, I discovered that a structured, multisensory approach is especially effective for students with dyslexia and other reading difficulties. I wanted to gain the specialized knowledge and skills needed to make a lasting impact on my students’ reading success. When I learned that my school district was offering the opportunity to become a Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT), I knew it was the perfect next step in my professional journey. Becoming a CALT has allowed me to combine my passion for literacy with the expertise needed to help every student become a confident, successful reader.
Favorite moment working with dyslexic students?
I have had many favorite moments working with dyslexic students, but one in particular stands out. I once worked with an exceptionally bright and gifted second grader who struggled deeply with low self-esteem. She knew she couldn’t read like her classmates and often felt embarrassed. Through patience, encouragement, and consistent practice, she began to believe in herself and her reading ability. By fourth grade, she approached her end-of-year state reading test with confidence, saying, “I’m not even worried about this test. I know I’ll do fine.” And she did. She not only passed but mastered it! It was a proud moment for both of us. My favorite moments are always like this. When a student proudly tells me they read aloud in front of their class for the first time, or when they start to recognize that they are becoming strong readers. Watching their confidence grow and seeing them realize their own success is truly the most rewarding part of my work
Your goal when working with kids with dyslexia?
My ultimate goal when working with students with dyslexia is to help them become confident, successful readers who reach their full potential. Before meaningful learning can take place, I focus on building strong, trusting relationships so my students feel safe, supported, and willing to take risks with their reading. I want every child I work with to understand that they are intelligent and capable and that being dyslexic simply means their brain learns to read in a different way. By creating a positive, encouraging environment, I strive to help my students discover their strengths, believe in themselves, and experience the joy of becoming lifelong readers
Your teaching style, personality?
To me, being an effective therapist begins with building meaningful relationships. True learning happens when students feel seen, valued, and supported. My students know that I genuinely care about them and that every decision I make is rooted in their success and well-being. I strive to create a safe, nurturing environment built on trust, mutual respect, and encouragement.
In my sessions, I hold high expectations for both my students and myself. I believe that effort and perseverance lead to growth, so we work hard together, yet we also take time to laugh, celebrate progress, and acknowledge every milestone. My approach blends patience, structure, and compassion with a deep belief in each student’s potential. By fostering confidence and resilience, I help my students see themselves as capable learners who can overcome challenges and achieve more than they ever thought possible.
Any family details?
I live with my husband, Rob and our three cats. We enjoy traveling, playing games, cooking and spending time with our family and friends.
