Certified OG Reading Specialist | Dyslexia, ADHD, and ESL

Kali W.

ADHD

For nearly two years, I've been tutoring a diverse range of students, with a particular focus on tailoring my approach to meet individual learning styles and needs. My experience includes creating engaging and structured lessons that break down complex concepts into manageable steps and fostering a supportive and patient learning environment. I utilize visual aids, interactive activities, and positive reinforcement techniques to enhance focus and comprehension, and I have significant experience working with students with ADHD and Autism. Currently, I am pursuing additional certifications as a Certified Autism Specialist (CAS) and a Certified Special Education Teacher (CSET) to further enhance my ability to support all my students. I've helped numerous students improve their academic performance and build confidence in their abilities.

Common Core

I have extensive experience teaching the Common Core curriculum online, creating engaging and effective learning experiences for students of all levels. My expertise lies in breaking down complex concepts into manageable and relatable lessons, ensuring a deep understanding of the material. I utilize interactive technology and personalized strategies to cater to individual learning styles, fostering a supportive and dynamic online environment. I've helped numerous students achieve academic success and build a strong foundation in Common Core principles.

Dyslexia

I am a certified Orton-Gillingham instructor with significant experience teaching this multisensory, structured literacy approach. My expertise lies in providing individualized instruction to students with dyslexia and other reading difficulties, helping them develop essential reading and spelling skills. I utilize hands-on activities and systematic lessons to build a strong foundation in phonics, phonemic awareness, and morphology. Through Orton-Gillingham, I empower students to overcome their learning challenges and achieve reading success.

Elementary (K-6th)

I am Kalinah Wh. (but I go by Kali), and I am passionate about education and empowering students to achieve their academic and personal goals. Through my experiences, I have developed a profound understanding of diverse learning styles and the importance of personalized instruction. The not-so-recent pandemic has put many students at a disadvantage, highlighting the need for personalized support and adaptability in learning environments. This reinforced my commitment to helping students navigate these new challenges. My journey began just before the pandemic when I first started as an ESL tutor in Chevy Chase, MD. It was then that I discovered my passion for teaching and the rewarding experience of helping students overcome language barriers. Working with diverse learners, I developed skills in fostering effective communication and engagement. This experience inspired me to expand my tutoring services to include other subjects, allowing me to support students in achieving their broader academic objectives. I believe that effective tutoring goes beyond just academic support; it's about building confidence and fostering a love for learning. I strive to create an engaging and supportive environment where students feel comfortable expressing their challenges and triumphs. My academic background in Education/Psychology equips me with the knowledge necessary to assist students in overcoming obstacles in their studies. I am dedicated to continuous learning and I stay updated with the latest educational resources and teaching techniques. I look forward to helping students unlock their full potential and recover their academic ambitions in this new educational landscape.

Reading

Phonics, Reading, and Orton-Gillingham I am a reading specialist with extensive experience in helping students of all ages develop strong reading skills. My areas of expertise include: Phonics and Decoding: I have a deep understanding of phonics principles and effective strategies for teaching decoding skills. I can assess students' phonics knowledge and tailor instruction to address specific gaps. Orton-Gillingham Approach: I am trained in and experienced with the Orton-Gillingham approach, a multi-sensory, research-based method for teaching reading to students with dyslexia and other reading difficulties. Reading Comprehension: In addition to foundational skills, I help students develop reading comprehension strategies to improve their understanding and critical thinking. Individualized Instruction: I create customized learning plans based on each student's unique needs and learning style. Experience: I have over 5 years of experience as a private tutor, providing in-home and online reading support. I have also been tutoring phonics and Orton-Gillingham with students through Varsity Tutors for the past two years. My goal is to empower students to become confident and successful readers.