The Struggle

I was held back in third grade because I was unable to read and was diagnosed with Dyslexia, ADHD, and APD (Audio Processing Disorder).

I did not fit in and was bullied as a result of being unable to do the simplest tasks, like work the combination on my school locker or recite the months of the year.

Nearing the end of my second time in 3rd grade, I still couldn't read, so my loving Mom took it upon herself to teach me.

With a lot of tears and hard work, I eventually did learn to read and graduated from high school.

A Dyslexic Conquers

Life began to change when I joined the Army. The structure helped me thrive, and I discovered I was a kinesthetic learner—someone who learns best by doing.

For the first time in my life, I saw that I wasn’t broken. I just learned differently.

I began developing coping skills to help me function in the military and life in general (many of which I still use today).

During my service, I won academic awards, as well as awards for my general mission accomplishment. I also climbed the ranks and became an airborne military police officer.

A Dyslexic becomes an Award-winning Teacher

After serving, I went to college and got my teaching degree so I could help students that were struggling and hurting, like I had, in school.

I went on to work with students and children who had severe, cognitive, physical and/or mental disabilities at the nationally acclaimed Gateway Education Center in Greensboro, NC.

I later earned the “Teaching Excellence Award” for my work with at-risk middle school students. I was also the recipient of the “National Impact Award” for my efforts at parent outreach and education.