Location: Hinckley, Ohio
Education: Bachelor of Science in Education (PreK-3), Master of Education in Literacy, Reading Endorsement (K-12), CALT in Training
Years Experience Teaching: 11
Years Experience In Dyslexia: 1
Teaching Experience
I am entering my 12th year of teaching in the public school district in which I began my career. I started in 2012 as a first and second grade English Language Arts teacher for one year. Then, I taught second grade for three years. In 2016, I began working as the Title I Literacy Lead, providing intervention for students with reading difficulties. I have remained in that role for seven years and I absolutely love it!
Professional Affiliations
Academic Language Therapy Association (ALTA)
International Dyslexia Association (IDA)
Programs Trained In
Take Flight
Age Range You Feel Most Comfortable With:
Elementary
Why did you decide to become a CALT?
After I began my current job, providing intervention for students with reading difficulties, I quickly realized that teaching reading is my passion. In an attempt to ensure that I am providing the best possible instruction for my students, I embarked on a journey to learn as much as I can about structured literacy and the Science of Reading. I completed a master’s program focused on literacy in 2021, but I felt that I needed more. So, I started the LETRS program. While working on that program, I still felt that I wanted to pursue something else. After a lot of research, I decided that I wanted to become a CALT. I knew that it would provide me with the knowledge and tools necessary to support the students that I work with daily.
Favorite moment working with dyslexic students?
My favorite moments are when I see students’ confidence start to build. It is such a great feeling for anyone when you feel like you CAN do something. At school, students are expected to read and spell nearly all day. For a person that has significant difficulty with reading and spelling, this can be extremely discouraging. It is truly amazing to see students begin to believe in themselves and recognize their potential!
Your goal when working with kids with dyslexia?
My goal is to provide each student with the absolute best opportunity for success. This means that instruction must be diagnostic and prescriptive to the specific student. I also strive to make learning fun and engaging, while building relationships with students.
Your teaching style, personality?
I am very structured and organized, so I naturally incorporate that into my teaching. I am also very detail oriented, which means I spend a lot of time thinking things through before, during, and after implementing instruction. I understand that reading and spelling is very challenging for the students I am working with, so patience and compassion is extremely important.
Any family details?
I am married. My husband and I don’t have any kids, but we do have a very spoiled Chorkie (chihuahua-yorkie mix) named Luna! We enjoy traveling, spending time with friends and family, and just hanging out!
