Reading Ranch Tutorial Center

Reading Ranch Mission Statement

The Reading Ranch Tutorial Center, established in 2006, offers a phonetically based program in reading, writing and spelling enrichment for children (PreK thru 4th grade). Our multi-sensory teaching approach meets individual needs giving them a strong foundation in reading, writing and spelling while ‘filling the gap’ for children that need literacy support.

Southwell’s strong work ethic paid off as she is now the founder and owner of The Reading Ranch® Tutorial Center, which has six locations in the Dallas-Fort Worth area – including one here in Castle Hills. Her childhood also serves as the perfect backdrop for why Southwell is so passionate about children’s literacy.

“During my teaching experiences, I saw a dire need for a reading improvement program for kids in Pre-K through elementary school,” said Southwell, who earned a P.h.D. in Reading Education and a minor in Early Childhood Education. “Reading and comprehension are vital skills for life-long learning, and it is critical that children learn these skills early.”

Southwell can relate. She struggled with her reading and attention problems, which led to poor self-confidence in the classroom. But in those days, teachers didn’t know how to help students with reading problems. It wasn’t until her mother began taking her to after-school reading tutoring a few days a week that Kim started showing progress.

Those successes and experiences helped her create the kid-friendly, western-setting Reading Ranch. Since 2006, The Reading Ranch has offered a phonetically-based program in reading, writing, and spelling enrichment. The multi-sensory teaching approach meets individual needs, giving students a strong foundation in reading, writing, and spelling while ‘filling the gap’ for children who need literacy support.

“If you cannot read well, school can be difficult. And it was for me,” said Southwell, who is offering parents free sample sessions and assessments. “I’ve always been able to relate to a kid’s frustrations with reading and writing. I am obsessed with the process of reading and writing and how to help children. It’s my only talent, and I love it!”