My Journey:
I began my career as an Elementary teacher, where I first learned about Orton-Gillingham (O-G). O-G is a structured, multisensory approach to teaching reading that is effective with struggling readers, especially dyslexics. This forever changed my teaching and also the course of my career.
I spent several years attaining first Associate level then Certified level in Orton-Gillingham, as well as getting my master’s degree in Reading and Literacy. Through this education and training, I have become knowledgeable not just in the practical application of teaching strategies but also in understanding dyslexia and the working of the brain as related to learning. This has given me a breadth and depth of knowledge that, along with thousands of hours of tutoring experience, provides me with the expertise to transform students of all ages and levels into successful readers and writers.
Now retired from my school career, I am excited to start this new phase of my life’s journey – opening the door to literacy for children of all ages through the services of Shaping Readers.
I believe:
- Every child can learn to read and write.
- We learn best when we are emotionally engaged and believe in ourselves.
- Small successes lead to bigger successes.
- Dyslexia is not a disability; it is a different ability.
I love:
- My family – my husband, Ed, son Greg (26) and daughter Aly (25).
- Gardening – digging in the dirt, the taste of homegrown tomatoes, and my perennial flowers that re-emerge each spring like a promise.
- Home decorating. I’m obsessed with HGTV and Home Goods.
- Also sewing, hiking, yoga, and scuba diving.
- Oh, and Sunday dinners with my big, Italian family.
- And I love that moment when something clicks and students “get it”. You can see it in their eyes and in their expressions, and it’s an absolutely great feeling.