I am fearless when it comes to equipping students with a literacy tool belt to become successful life-long learners.

When I was in 4th grade, a crucial year for literacy growth, I moved to a new school. It was there that I noticed how far behind I was compared to my peers. I knew my reading must have been bad because I was not put into ANY reading group. Instead, the teacher had me reading a different type of book. I can remember feeling so dumb and embarrassed. While my teacher tried her best to help me, she realized I needed more support than she could give me in the classroom.

Eventually, she ended up referring me to the after-school reading teacher. Inside that tiny room, no bigger than a large closet, the magic happened; my whole world changed. After meeting Ms. Becka, not only did she get me reading at grade-level that year, but also, more importantly, she ignited a fire in me. I started to believe in myself, and I no longer thought I was dumb. Her influence had such a powerful impact on me that when I entered college, I knew I wanted to help other children just like me.

Children who struggle in reading and writing need that one teacher who can empower them to believe in themselves and equip them with the necessary skills to have academic success. I know the value of discovering each child's strength, and I know how to explicitly teach the effective strategies needed to grow a child's reading and writing abilities.

I hope by sharing my own story, I will get the opportunity to hear your child's unique story.