Location: Wylie, Texas
Education: M.Ed., LDT, CALT
Years Experience Teaching: 22
Years Experience In Dyslexia: 8
Teaching Experience
In addition to the eight years of experience teaching Take Flight at the Elementary level, I have seven years of experience as a third-grade classroom teacher, four years of experience as a fifth-grade math teacher, and 3 years of experience as an elementary math instructional coach.
Professional Affiliations
Member of the Academic Language Therapists Association
Licensed Dyslexia Therapist through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
Programs Trained In
Take Flight: A Comprehensive Intervention for Students with Dyslexia
Age Range You Feel Most Comfortable With:
2nd grade through High School
Why did you decide to become a CALT?
I decided to become a CALT when I noticed that one of my third-grade, dyslexic, students had great success learning to read through the Rite Flight program. In a single semester, she made so much positive gain in learning to decode words that I had to find out more. I grew up knowing that I was dyslexic, but very few programs and accommodations were available to me as a school-age student, and none of them gave the results this student experienced. Soon, I learned that I could train to become a therapist using the newer Take Flight program. It has been my greatest privilege to work with students to overcome reading difficulties these last few years.
Favorite moment working with dyslexic students?
My absolute favorite moment working with dyslexic students is when they use the decoding training to read an unfamiliar word and they realize that all the hard work has paid off! They know that reading is going to get better, and they can do it themselves!
Your goal when working with kids with dyslexia?
My goal when working with a dyslexic student is to help them become their own teacher. I want to see them through to the point that they can continue to grow as a reader on their own.
Your teaching style, personality?
I enjoy discovery teaching. I like to ask questions that lead the learner to their own conclusions. The new learning in the Take Flight Program lends itself to this style of learning. I have a positive and straightforward approach toward students.
Any family details?
I live in Wylie with my dog Milo. My two children, Mason and Rachael, are grown and I am so proud to be a part of their lives because they are both caring and loving people.
Any extra anecdotal info you want to add?
If I am not teaching online, you’ll probably find me crafting or working with stained glass.
