Reading & Writing Superheroes
About
"Ms. McCurley makes reading and writing fun!" said many middle school students who struggled before coming to my class. Each student has a successful reader and writer buried inside, but different students learn in different ways. Understanding the approaches that work for an individual is the first step to clearing the learning cobwebs of what isn't working. Then connecting the lessons to the real world interests of each student creates internal motivation that lasts well beyond a given school year.
As a student in the 80's and early 90's, I suffered from undiagnosed ADHD, but somehow created strategies to control myself so that I graduated with honors from High School and then from Vanderbilt University. Understanding the unique needs and talents of each student is the key to success, coupled with regular practice habits that transform daily successes into big goals realized.
My academic achievements: graduated Greenhill School, BA with Honors from Vanderbilt University (communications major/visual art minor), graduated 4.0 and Best Portfolio from Art Institute of Dallas. Teaching certificate through Texas Teachers, and 2 years teaching experience 7th grade Language Arts in DISD.
I enjoy helping students find their way into learning. That 'Aha!' moment is my personal fuel, followed by guiding learners into practices that build confidence and skill is the overall work. Teaching and learning is a delight for me.
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Laila T.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
In the first meeting I talk with the student about their current challenges and future goals. I have them complete a few light assessments to benchmark their skills, or review homework assignments that are creating frustration. I key in on what is causing blocks for the learning and flesh out strategies that might work for them based on their interests and areas of current success.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
First, I am a lifelong learner constantly in some course of study to develop my skills and personal growth. Second, I'm a certified teacher with a few years of classroom experience focused on reading and writing. Though I deeply enjoyed classroom teaching, I prefer a smaller student to teacher ratio and less school administrative interference. Additionally, I have been a small business owner for many years, so I have real world experience in how classroom taught skills translate into experiental success.