
Location: Farmersville, TX
Education:
CALT
Years Experience Teaching: 18
Years Experience In Dyslexia: 6
Teaching Experience:
12 years in Kindergarten and 6 years of specialized experience as a Dyslexia Therapist.
Professional Affiliations:
Member, Academic Language Therapy Association, Texas State Teachers Association
Programs Trained In:
Take Flight, Build, Jet, Reading By Design, Handwriting Without Tears
Age Range You Feel Most Comfortable With:
All
Brook Cross
CALT
Why did you decide to become a CALT?
My decision to become a CALT began with my oldest daughter, who is now 16, an honor student, and someone who genuinely loves and thrives in school. However, her journey was not always easy. During her first-grade year, she struggled significantly with reading. There were many tears, frustration, sadness, and moments where her self-esteem began to suffer. As a kindergarten teacher, I worked with her at home and tried every strategy I knew to help, but despite my efforts, she continued to struggle. Eventually, I took her to the Scottish Rite for Children, where she qualified for dyslexia services. At that time, our school district did not yet have a dyslexia program available to support her needs. That experience changed everything for me. I decided to step in and learn how to help my daughter in the way she truly needed. What started as a mission to support her quickly became a passion. I completely fell in love with the world of dyslexia therapy, structured literacy, and helping students discover confidence in themselves as learners. Today, as a dyslexia therapist, it is incredibly meaningful to help children who struggle in the same ways my daughter once did. Watching students gain confidence, develop skills, and begin to believe in themselves is one of the greatest joys of my work. This path began with my daughter, but it has grown into a calling to help many children and families navigate the same journey with hope and success.
Favorite moment working with dyslexic students?
My favorite moments are when I see students begin to believe in themselves again. Because of my daughter’s journey, I know firsthand how much struggle and emotion can come with dyslexia. Watching a child who once felt defeated gain confidence and realize, “I can do this,” never gets old. Those moments remind me exactly why I chose this path.
Your goal when working with kids with dyslexia?
My goal is to help students with dyslexia grow academically and emotionally. I want to build strong literacy skills through structured instruction while also helping students regain confidence, develop resilience, and recognize that they are capable learners. Success for me is when a child begins to believe in themselves and feels empowered to thrive.
Your teaching style, personality?
I would describe my teaching style as sweet, encouraging, and organized. I work hard to build trusting relationships with students, create a positive learning environment, and provide structured support that helps each child feel confident and successful.
Any family details?
I am a proud mom to two amazing daughters who definitely keep me busy with their extracurricular activities! My oldest daughter, Karlie, is a junior in high school and actively involved in FFA. She enjoys showing pigs and participates in dairy judging. My youngest daughter, Kora, is 11 years old and in 6th grade. She stays busy with cheer and volleyball. Being a mom has been one of the greatest joys of my life and has deeply shaped who I am both personally and professionally. Supporting my daughters as they pursue their passions has strengthened my belief in encouraging children to grow in confidence, work hard, and discover what they love.
Any extra anecdotal info you want to add?
My heart is in helping children feel seen, supported, and successful in and out of the classroom. I love supporting students as they grow in confidence and discover their strengths.