
Location: Fort Worth, TX
Education:
M.A.T., CALT
Years Experience Teaching: 19
Years Experience In Dyslexia: 3
Teaching Experience:
16 years as a First Grade Teacher
3 years as a Dyslexia Therapist in the Public School Setting
Professional Affiliations:
ALTA (Academic Language Therapy Association), Certified Reading Specialist, Current Certified Texas Teacher
Programs Trained In:
Take Flight (Scottish Rite)
Turbo Start (Scottish Rite)
Age Range You Feel Most Comfortable With:
5-12 years old is who I am most comfortable with because I am an elementary teacher, but would be happy to work with any age.
Mary Sapp
MAT, CALT
Why did you decide to become a CALT?
I knew from a young age that I wanted to be a teacher. Inspired by my mother, who was also a teacher, I loved being in the school environment and was thrilled to begin my career as a first-grade teacher right out of college. During my 16 years in first grade, I developed a passion for small-group reading instruction and helping students experience those breakthrough moments when reading finally clicks. As I worked with struggling readers, I realized I wanted the knowledge and skills to provide more specialized support, which led me to pursue CALT training. It was a natural next step in my career, and it has allowed me to make an even greater impact on the students who need it most.
Favorite moment working with dyslexic students?
One of my most special moments working with dyslexia students was watching my first groups progress through the two years of my training. Take Flight was new for all of us, and seeing their reading skills, confidence, and independence grow month after month was incredibly rewarding. By the time they completed the program, I was filled with both pride and sadness—pride in how far they had come and sadness that our journey together was ending. Those first groups will always hold a special place in my heart and remain a memorable part of my teaching journey.
Your goal when working with kids with dyslexia?
My goal is to create a safe, supportive learning environment where students feel comfortable taking risks, making mistakes, and growing as learners. By fostering confidence and resilience, I strive to help students develop the skills and self-belief needed to become successful, independent readers.
Your teaching style, personality?
My teaching style is rooted in compassion, patience, and encouragement. I strive to create a positive, supportive environment where students feel valued, build confidence, and enjoy the learning process while making meaningful progress.
Any family details?
I have been married to my husband, Jared, for 18 years, and together we have three amazing boys—16-year-old twins, Easton and Everett, and our youngest, Hudson, who is 13. We enjoy hiking, swimming, spending time with our two dogs, Roscoe and Piper, and making memories on road trips. Most of all, we cherish simply being together and enjoying quality time as a family.