Location: Irving, Texas
Education: Masters of Education, Licensed Dyslexia Therapist, Certified Academic Language Therapist
Years Experience Teaching: 14
Years Experience In Dyslexia: 7
Teaching Experience
Dyslexia Therapist EC-12 Grade
Reading Specialist K-6 Grade
Elementary School Teacher 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Grade
Professional Affiliations
I believe everyone deserves the right to grow and learn.
Programs Trained In
Take Flight
Multi-sensory Teaching Approach- MTA
Alphabetic Phonics Situation Learning
Age Range You Feel Most Comfortable With:
All Ages
Why did you decide to become a CALT?
I grew up the 4th of 5 children. All of my other siblings caught on to reading, spelling and writing quickly, but I did not. I never understood why they could do their work faster and easier than me. I had to wait until 6th grade for my answer. I had dyslexia. Back when I was younger there were not as many resources for people with dyslexia, so I made it my mission to educate adults and children on what dyslexia is and how it can be remediated. I had an amazing childhood but would never want a child to grow up thinking something is wrong with them just because they have this learning disability.
Favorite moment working with dyslexic students?
I have so many stories, but this has to be one of my favorites. I had a student that many considered a “waste of time”. He spent most of his time in and out of detention centers and alternative schools. I had the privilege to work with him and with lots of dedication he was able to complete the dyslexia therapy program. After completing the program, I wanted to have a celebration for him and invited his family and all the teacher that impacted him throughout his dyslexia journey. At the celebration one of the teachers asked the young man, “So, how do you feel?” We all expected a sarcastic or funny remark but instead he said, “I have never finished anything in my life. It feels really good to know that I can finish things. Makes me want to do more.” Through all of our tears I knew that this was what I needed to do for the rest of my career!
Your goal when working with kids with dyslexia?
My goal is to ensure that learners have a safe place. Many people with dyslexia work hard to hide their disability. I want to create a space that allows learners to feel comfortable with making mistakes. In each session I spend time asking about their day and I ask them to tell me something good. This builds the trusting relationship I am always striving to have and will allow learning to happen.
Your teaching style, personality?
My teaching style is kind but firm. I take time to get to know learners and make sure they understand that I want what is best for them. Lessons can be altered to certain learning styles. The longer I work with a learner, I get to know when they can be pushed and when it’s time to give them that extra TLC.
Any family details?
I am married to my husband, Jonathan. We do not have children, but we do have a Labradane fur baby named Eva. She is our world and we hope to be apart of a Great Dane rescue in the future.
