Location: San Antonio, Texas
Education: B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies from Texas State University; M.Ed. in Special Education with a Dyslexia emphasis from Midwestern State University
Years Experience Teaching: 23
Years Experience In Dyslexia: 20
Teaching Experience
I began my teaching career as a 3rd grade classroom teacher and quickly fell in love with helping students grow. After three and a half years in the classroom, I was given the opportunity to become an Instructional Intervention Teacher (IIT), where I focused on supporting small groups of students struggling in reading and math.
It was during this time that I began working closely with students with dyslexia—and I knew I had found my true passion. That experience led me to become a Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT). Now, I’m able to help students build confidence and develop the skills they need to become successful, lifelong readers.
Professional Affiliations
ALTA
Programs Trained In
SPIRE
Take Flight
Build
Reading By Design
Reading Readiness
Voyager
Age Range You Feel Most Comfortable With:
Early Elementary to Middle School
Why did you decide to become a CALT?
I know firsthand how frustrating and discouraging reading struggles can be, because I experienced them myself. As a child, I wanted to memorize words instead of sounding them out, which made reading a constant challenge. Those struggles continued through elementary school and even into college.
What made the difference for me were the teachers who believed in me. They were patient, encouraging, and never gave up. Because of them, I not only improved my skills—I learned to love reading. That’s why I became a CALT: to be that kind of support for students who feel discouraged or defeated by reading.
I often share my own story with my students—even the fact that I still face reading challenges today—because I want them to know they’re not alone. My goal is always to help every child feel capable, confident, and empowered to reach their full potential.
Favorite moment working with dyslexic students?
Some of my favorite moments are the small ones—when a student finally “gets it,” and their face lights up with pride. I love when a student runs in to say, “I finished a book!” or tells me they passed an assignment using what we practiced together. Those moments never get old.
But one moment that has stayed with me was when a former student—who I had only worked with for six months in 3rd grade—returned to see me years later. He was graduating high school magna cum laude, and he came back just to thank me. He said I was the first person who helped him believe he could read, and that he wasn’t, as he put it, “dumb.” That moment brought tears to my eyes and reminded me of how powerful early intervention and encouragement can be.
Your goal when working with kids with dyslexia?
My goal is to help your child feel confident, capable, and excited about learning to read. I know from personal experience how hard it can be to struggle with reading—I was one of those kids. Because of that, I prioritize creating a positive, supportive space where your child feels safe to make mistakes, try again, and celebrate their progress.
I believe every child can learn to read with the right tools, encouragement, and someone in their corner who believes in them. I meet each student where they are and use proven, research-based strategies tailored to their individual needs. More importantly, I make sure they know they’re not alone—and that struggling with reading doesn’t mean they’re not smart.
At the heart of my work is this: I want every child I work with to believe in themselves, build confidence, and know that they can succeed, not just in reading, but in anything they set their mind to.
Your teaching style, personality?
I focus on building a caring and open relationship with both you and your child. Trust is so important, especially when a child is struggling
My teaching style is patient, encouraging, and supportive. I work hard to make sure every session feels safe, positive, and tailored to your child’s needs. I believe in celebrating progress, no matter how big or small, and helping each child build the confidence they need to keep going.
I see the therapy process as a true team effort—between your child and me, and between us as a team of adults supporting them. I value keeping parents in the loop and working together, because when we’re all connected, the growth is even stronger.
Above all, I want your child to feel seen, understood, and proud of what they’re accomplishing.
Any family details?
I have two playful (and sometimes crazy!) cats and love spending time with my close-knit family—including my mom and dad, two sisters, brother-in-law, niece, and boyfriend—whenever we can all be together. I enjoy relaxing trips to our family condo on the coast, visiting the Texas Hill Country, or simply spending quality time at home with the people I love.
