About Shanna S.
I'm a Texas transplant and a University of Texas graduate. My teaching career spans two decades with an emphasis in English Instruction, Reading Intervention, and Writing across all curriculum. I beg... more
I'm a Texas transplant and a University of Texas graduate. My teaching career spans two decades with an emphasis in English Instruction, Reading Intervention, and Writing across all curriculum. I began teaching in 1997 and took a hiatus from full-time teaching to raise my two sons. However, I actively stayed in education, long-term subbing in diverse cultures, socioeconomic environments, and rural Title-one schools, and continued to gain knowledge of special needs students with my own children's growth in education. Thus, the beginning of my Literacy Intervention passion began. I have moved from the Middle School English whole classroom to Middle School Literacy Intervention, a career I’m excited to continue to cultivate.
I have the desire to share my love for literacy and strengthen the reading, writing, and communication skills of all learners. I hold a BA in Education and certifications in Elementary Education and Secondary ELA Education. I have taught at the Elementary & Middle School levels. Last summer, I was very busy furthering my education to meet the instructional needs of Middle School Literacy students needing intervention. I am certified in Yoshimoto's Orton-Gillingham approach and also completed several hours of training in Dyslexia identification, literacy intervention, Colorado READ Act, Guided Reading, Disciplinary Literacy and so much more.
Outside of the classroom, I have many hobbies, most of which include outdoor activities that I find time to do in the summer. I'm a bit of an adventurist. I also love refinishing furniture and photography. When I'm not teaching, playing outside, or single-handedly navigating the lives of two teenage sons, I'm constantly taking classes or reading up on research involving the Middle School learner, Reading Intervention, Social-Emotional Learning, and anything else I can get my hands on to better educate myself in creating the best Middle School Literacy experience for my students.
Classroom Philosophy
I believe every student can be a successful reader and writer. I’m excited to lead and learn alongside my students while they reach important academic and social milestones in their individual literacy journey. I believe in creating a safe, diverse, and individualized learning environment for all my students. In partnership with my students, their parents, and core teachers, my greatest desire is to advocate for them and provide a successful and empowering literacy experience.
