Location: Weatherford, Texas
Education: B.S. in Sociology/English Minor/Teaching Certificate
Years Experience Teaching: 29
Years Experience In Dyslexia: 18
Teaching Experience
I have had the privilege of working with all grade levels throughout my classroom experience and dyslexia therapy. I was an elementary self-contained teacher for grades 1-3. I taught ELAR for grades 6-8. Most of my teaching years have been spent as a dyslexia therapist. I love working with all ages. Each age range is unique and special. I began teaching dyslexia therapy with elementary agas. Prior to moving, I spent several years working with JH and HS students as a dyslexia therapist.
Professional Affiliations
ATPE
ALTA
Programs Trained In
Take Flight
Reading Readiness
MTA
Herman Method
Age Range You Feel Most Comfortable With:
All Ages
Why did you decide to become a CALT?
I was excited to become a CALT. I was originally trained in the Herman Method and MTA. I spent several years teaching MTA. After a visit to Scottish Rite Hospital where I was able to observe first hand their Take Flight Program- I knew I needed to be trained at the CALT level. It was very intense, but I felt like I gained so much knowledge to better help my dyslexic students.
Favorite moment working with dyslexic students?
I have a lot of favorite moments over the years. It is amazing when a student understands the concepts and makes that connection to their reading. I can always see that sparkle in their eyes when they begin to gain confidence in their reading abilities. Having a parent or student come to me days, weeks, months, or even years later- sharing successes-that’s magical!
This past year I was invited to escort a former student for senior/teacher appreciation and that left my heart happy!
Your goal when working with kids with dyslexia?
I want my students to be confident readers. I also want them to be able to advocate for themselves throughout school and life. I want them to feel a support system that is always encouraging them!
Your teaching style, personality?
I am relationship centered. I believe that developing a rapport and teaching relationship is essential when working with dyslexic students. They need to feel comfortable with me as a therapist so they can trust the process and make reading progress.
Any family details?
I have been married for 29 years. We love sports and traveling near and far. We consider ourselves foodies. We have 3 adult children. Our son is a proud graduate of Texas A&M University and works as an engineer. My oldest daughter graduated from Baylor University and is currently attending medical school in Missouri. My youngest daughter just finished playing 5 years of collegiate volleyball at UT Arlington. She is in the process of finishing her MBA.