Location: Lewisville, Texas
Education: B.A, M.Ed, CALT, LDT
Years Experience Teaching: 21
Years Experience In Dyslexia: 5
Teaching Experience
I have been teaching for 21 years in an elementary school setting. During that time, I have taught 2nd and 3rd grade as a self-contained classroom teacher, was part of our district’s Intervention Team and provided services to struggling students in grades K-5.
Professional Affiliations
ALTA (Academic Language Therapy Association)
Licensed Dyslexia Therapist in the state of Texas
Programs Trained In
Take Flight and Build- Texas Scottish Rite Hospital
Age Range You Feel Most Comfortable With:
First grade through middle school
Why did you decide to become a CALT?
While providing intervention to struggling readers, I realized that many of my students continued to struggle, so I looked into various methods to teach reading, I learned that using a multisensory approach was an effective way to teach reading, especially for students with dyslexia. When I learned that my school district was hiring and training teachers to become CALTs, I jumped on the opportunity.
Favorite moment working with dyslexic students?
I have had many favorite moments working with dyslexic students, but one in particular comes to mind. I had an extremely smart, gifted and talented 2nd grade student with very low self-esteem. She knew she couldn’t read like other students and was embarrassed. By 4th grade, she began to believe in herself and her reading ability. When she was getting ready to take her end of the year state reading test, she told me, “I’m not even worried about this test. I know I will do fine.” Well, she sure did. Not only did she pass, but she mastered it. It was a proud moment for the both of us.
Your goal when working with kids with dyslexia?
My ultimate goal is for my students to become confident and successful readers. But, before I can begin to help my students, my number one goal is to build a meaningful relationship with them, so they feel safe with me and become willing to take risks with their reading. I want them to know that they are smart and that being dyslexic only means that their brains learn to read differently than others.
Your teaching style, personality?
To me, being a great therapist starts with building relationships. My students know that I care about them, and that I only want what is best for them. I provide a safe learning environment that is built on trust and a mutual respect for each other. Not only do I have high expectations for my students, but for myself as well. We work hard but also take the time to have fun and celebrate our accomplishments, With patience, compassion and encouragement, I push my students so they can reach their full potential.
Any family details?
I live with my husband, Rob and our three cats. We enjoy traveling, playing games, cooking and spending time with our family and friends.
