About Reading Roots
Welcome
If you're searching for help with your child's reading, you've already taken the most important step. I'm a certified reading specialist with over 25 years of experience helping elementary-age children unlock the joy of reading — and I'd love to help your family too.
25+
years helping children be better readers
My story
I have always been a reader, and I have always wanted to help others be readers as well. In first grade, I remember thinking that my teacher must have the best job because she got to help children learn to read. So I grew up thinking I wanted to be a 1st grade teacher. Later on, I discovered that there was a job where I could exclusively teach reading, and that is where I found my true calling. I have a Bachelor's in Elementary Education and a Master's in Reading Education, both from the University of Missouri. After a few years as a classroom teacher, I became a Reading Specialist and have spent the rest of my career as a Title I Reading Teacher and private reading tutor.
I am passionate about helping students read well with confidence, and I am particularly driven by helping students with symptoms of dyslexia. My own children tease me that when I am not teaching reading, I am reading about reading in order to improve my craft. I am LETRS certified and continually invest in advanced literacy research, particularly relating to the Science of Reading and dyslexia.
One of my greatest joys is taking students from a place of frustration or discouragement to a sense of pride in what they can accomplish now.
Reading Roots was born from a simple belief: every child can learn to read, and every child deserves a specialist who believes that about them.
Credentials & training
Qualified to help your child
M.Ed. in Reading Education
Specialized graduate training in literacy development and reading intervention
Extensive evidence-based training
Trained in gold-standard reading methodologies—including LETRS and the Wilson Reading System—and deeply committed to continuous, self-directed research in the Science of Reading
Certified Reading Specialist
State-licensed specialist with expertise in assessment and intervention
25+ Years of Experience
Hundreds of students helped through schools and private practice
My teaching philosophy
Reading is a skill — and every child can learn it.
I don't believe in one-size-fits-all tutoring. Every child learns differently, and my job is to figure out exactly how your child's brain works — then teach to that. I use structured literacy as my foundation, but I bring warmth, humor, and genuine curiosity to every session.
Science-backed methods
I use only approaches with strong research support — no guessing, no fads.
Child-centered learning
Your child's interests, strengths, and pace guide every lesson.
Parent partnership
You're part of the team. I keep you informed and involved every step of the way.
Let's talk about your child.
Book a free 30-minute consultation — no pressure, just a conversation about where your child is and how I can help.