Location: Frisco, TX
Education: B.S. in Early Childhood Education M.Ed. in Elementary Education specializing in Reading and Language Arts
Years Experience Teaching: 32
Years Experience In Dyslexia: 8
Teaching Experience
With over 32 years of teaching experience in early and upper elementary, I have fostered the love of learning with countless students in grades K, 1st, 2nd, 4th, and 5th. I am passionate about creating an inclusive classroom where every child feels valued. Throughout my rewarding career, I have made countless connections with my students and families. Many of which I am still in touch with. I hold certifications in Early Childhood Education (PK-KG), Elementary Education (1-8), and Texas ESL Supplemental (PK-8). I am a graduate of the Texas Reading Academy (TEA) and also a Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT).
Professional Affiliations
ALTA
Programs Trained In
PreFlight
Take Flight
RiteFlight
Touch Phonics
Age Range You Feel Most Comfortable With:
K-8
Why did you decide to become a CALT?
After years spent in early elementary teaching students to read, I wanted to understand why some of my upper elementary students were struggling. These were some of my most highly motivated and dedicated learners, and fluent reading was not coming easily. I became dedicated to learning more. The decision to become a CALT was not only a professional decision, but a personal one. I wanted to be an educator that could deliver effective, research-based interventions within my classroom with my students and see their growth and success. My goal is to unlock this success, create learners who have confidence in reading, and who develop a love of reading that will last a lifetime.
Favorite moment working with dyslexic students?
When classrooms were forced to go virtual during the pandemic, I had to transition Take Flight instruction from in-class, hands-on instruction to online for my students. I had to maintain engagement while still providing individualized instruction. It was challenging, but I was able to adapt and successfully transition from the classroom to virtual learning. Those are the students I bonded with the most. We had many laughs figuring things out together. During that time, I learned just as much from them as, I hope, they learned from me.
Your goal when working with kids with dyslexia?
Regardless of the grade level and age, each student is a unique learner. It is critical to individually target my instruction and meet each student where they are. That is my number one goal.
Your teaching style, personality?
Building relationships is the foundation of my teaching style. I prioritize a safe, supportive, and trusting environment. By getting to know my students first, knowing their strengths and challenges, I can tailor my instruction to meet their unique needs. When a students feels more connected to their teacher, they are more confident, motivated, and willing to take academic risks. This is pertinent to student growth and academic success.
Any family details?
I have lived in Frisco, Texas for the past 20 years with my husband, Kevin, and our two daughters, Lauren (19) and Natalie (17). We also have two dogs, Penny and Lucy. We love visits to Fayetteville where Lauren will be a sophomore at The University of Arkansas. Natalie will be a senior in high school, and we look forward to watching her cheer at football games in the fall. Our family loves to spend time together: traveling, going out to eat and to the movies, hanging out in our pool, and playing games.
Any extra anecdotal info you want to add?
I left the public school system after my beloved school closed down. I feel so fortunate to have the opportunity to continue supporting dyslexic students!
