Location: Dallas, TX
Education: BA-Pyschology
Years Experience Teaching: 16
Years Experience In Dyslexia: 7
Teaching Experience
This is my 16th year in education. Over the years, I have been a K-5 General Education/ESL (English as a Second Language) teacher, Reading Interventionist, Campus Reading Specialist, and now Dyslexia Specialist! I have completed my Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT) hours and will sit for the exam this summer!
Professional Affiliations
I am currently a member of the International Dyslexia Association of Dallas.
Programs Trained In
I am trained in Multisensory Teaching Approach (MTA), Alphabetic Phonics, and Take Flight.
Age Range You Feel Most Comfortable With:
K-12
Why did you decide to become a CALT?
Becoming a CALT was a no-brainer for me because giving students the gift of reading is my passion. It has given me a depth of knowledge that I did not have before, which allows me to reach students on any level by using research-based instructional methods.
Favorite moment working with dyslexic students?
My favorite moment when working with dyslexic students is when you are able to see the science of reading come to life before your eyes! When they begin the program, they have an estranged relationship with language and are not able to recognize patterns in words. However, before the semester ends, they are able to see syllable types and decode words more fluently. I’m just in awe of the brain and what it is able to do with the right tools!
Your goal when working with kids with dyslexia?
Initially, my goal is to break down barriers that hinder students from growing mentally and emotionally. Unfortunately, by the time students enter the program, they are broken. My goal is to help them understand Dyslexia and build a growth mindset so that the learning can begin!
Your teaching style, personality?
Just like a sunrise or sunset, everyone is uniquely created with gifts and talents to offer this world. This influences my teaching approach because I study my students so they can show me how to reach them and I can share what gifts & talents I see in them. Building a rapport with students is the key to getting buy-in so they can weather the storm; because this is not a race, it’s a journey.
Any family details?
I am currently single, with no children. I have a 7 yr old adopted nephew and a 2 yr old goddaughter. It is my absolute delight to spoil them and send them back home!
Any extra anecdotal info you want to add?
During my free time, I love sitting around a table with family and friends. I love going on road trips and learning about the culture and traditions that make a place unique. When I’m not on the road or eating great food, I enjoy indulging in the arts (from still to kinesthetic) and basking in the beauty of nature.
