"I'm a speech-language pathologist (SLP). We're experts in communication, but a big part of what I do involves academic support. Here are a few examples:

-phonics, literacy, dyslexia

-written composition

-short/long-term memory

-study skills/methods

-cognitive skills (reasoning, etc.)

-social-pragmatic skills (autism)

-speech-articulation (speech impediments)

-accent modification/reduction

-diagnostic evaluation

I have more than 15 years of experience in special education and behavioral intervention. Before moving to New Orleans to pursue a Masters of Science in Communication Disorders, I worked in some of the best charter schools in the nation. Now I run a virtual private practice (SpeakEasily SLP). I've learned a lot about what it takes to be a good teacher and SLP. Most of it has to do with bringing out the best in your students. Here's my basic philosophy.

1) The student must be INVESTED in the relationship. The best, most lasting kind of learning happens once a relationship has been established. Almost everyone can name that one teacher for whom this was true. Ultimately, you can't make someone learn; they must be motivated to do so on their own, and this develops through investment. It's what really drives the whole experience.

2) A student must progress through the material in the right ORDER, or what we call a hierarchy of skills. This seems pretty simple, but the hard part is finding exactly where those gaps exist. A teacher must be able to identify them and make a plan to address them. This involves the use of multi-sensory instruction/practice. So we'll use everything: colors, shapes, space, movement, patterns, sounds, songs, whiteboards, flashcards, tossing, jumping, and even pen and paper.

3) Have a good time! Learning, in its basic form, is a fun thing to do. So let's keep it that way. Let's build confidence (which is fun) and get better (which is also fun).

Don't hesitate to contact me. I'll be happy to talk." less...