Location: Allen, Texas
Education: Bachelor of Business in Marketing-Texas Tech University Teaching Certification with an emphasis in English-The University of Texas at Arlington Take Flight Dyslexia Therapy Training- McKinney Christian Multisensory Teacher Training Center
Years Experience Teaching: 14
Years Experience In Dyslexia: 4
Teaching Experience
Intervention Teacher-4 Years (K-6th grades)
3rd Grade Teacher-6 years
Dyslexia Therapist-4 years (1st-12th grades)
Professional Affiliations
ALTA
ATPE-Association of Texas Professional Educators
Programs Trained In
Take Flight
Reading Horizons
Age Range You Feel Most Comfortable With:
All ages
Why did you decide to become a CALT?
As a classroom teacher, what I enjoyed most was working with students in small groups or one on one. I was able to really get to know them and understand their struggles. I was extremely interested in reaching those students that struggled in reading, but I didn’t know how to help them. I began to research and sit in on dyslexia therapy classes at my campus. I was blown away at how successful therapy was and how those students progressed throughout the year. I knew that studying to be a CALT was my next step. I absolutely love what I do!
Favorite moment working with dyslexic students?
My favorite moments when working with dyslexic students are when they understand the “why” behind their learning. Once they connect or relate to what is being taught, it’s like a light bulb goes on! It’s their “Ah-ha” moment. I also love to see their self-confidence grow as they move through the program. What an amazing moment it is when a student volunteers to read aloud or help other struggling students. I will never forget the look of empowerment and joy on their faces.
Your goal when working with kids with dyslexia?
I have several goals when working with my students. My first goal as a therapist is to reflect on the positives and push out the negativity. My second goal is to be as supportive as I can but also promote ownership of their learning. My third goal is to promote a growth mindset which emphasizes the steps that lead to a result, not the result itself. The point of growth mindset is to learn and to improve. My 4th goal is to promote self-advocacy. Self-advocacy is about creating solutions and asking for support instead of just struggling with challenges.
Your teaching style, personality?
I try to create a classroom that is a safe place for my students. I also strive to be a teacher that is structured, friendly, creative, fun, compassionate, encouraging, and patient.
Any family details?
I am married to my wonderful husband, Christopher. We have 2 children, Lucas & Lily. Lucas is 22 and studying to be an engineer. Lily is 19 and studying to be a nurse. We also have fur babies. We have a Golden Retriever named Ella and 2 kitties named Kitty and Big Kitty!
