Allie D. Literacy Tutor

Allie D.

I am a dedicated educator with a strong background in early childhood education, special education, and literacy instruction. I earned my undergraduate degree from Slippery Rock University, where I dual-majored in Early Childhood Education and Special Education, and I earned my master’s degree in Literacy from Robert Morris University. My training allows me to support a wide range of learners, particularly students who benefit from individualized instruction.

I specialize in structured literacy using an Orton-Gillingham–based approach, a research-supported method that is explicit, systematic, sequential, and multisensory. This approach is especially effective for students who struggle with reading, including those with dyslexia. Through my structured literacy practicum, I provided diagnostic and prescriptive instruction in phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and reading comprehension, tailoring each lesson to meet individual student needs.

I am currently earning my dyslexia credential and have completed all required instructional hours. This training has strengthened my ability to identify reading skill gaps and provide targeted, evidence-based support that helps students make meaningful progress.

During tutoring sessions, I focus on building strong foundational skills while also supporting confidence and independence. Lessons are structured, engaging, and cumulative, with frequent opportunities for review and practice. I use hands-on, multisensory strategies such as word building, sound mapping, guided reading, and explicit modeling to help students succeed.

I have experience working with students with IEPs and those who need extra support in reading and writing. I believe in creating a positive and encouraging learning environment and maintaining open communication with families. My goal is to help students grow as confident readers while developing skills that support long-term academic success.