Language Therapist Explains Why The Best City For Dyslexia Education Is Dallas
A career in education can help students learn their potential and reach goals beyond their dreams. Tammy Bryant works at the Quinlan ISD as a language therapist, specializing in dyslexia. She says teaching is not just a job; it's a calling.
Where do you work and what is your position?
"I work for Quinlan ISD as a certified academic language therapist. I help dyslexic students improve their reading, spelling and writing skills. I have a bachelor of science in education from East Texas State University and I am a certified teacher in elementary education with specializations in English, special education, all levels, and English as a second language. I am also a certified academic language therapist and a licensed dyslexia therapist. I am currently being trained in Take Flight through Texas Scottish Rites Hospital and am pursuing my masters of curriculum and instruction through A&M Commerce with my principals certification. In order to do my job, you need to have a teaching certificate for the grade level you are going to work with and be trained in a curriculum that meets the state criteria for dyslexia remediation."
How has your education assisted you?
"My education has helped by making me knowledgeable in the area of dyslexia and how to help those who are born with this learning difference understand that dyslexia is not a deterrent. When a student is struggling with a learning difference, it is helpful to understand their fears and frustrations. My education has not only given me the skills I need to help students who are dyslexic learn to read, spell and write, but also to help educate others to understand the dyslexic learner."
What makes working in the DFW area unique for your particular field?
"Working in the DFW area is very unique for the field of dyslexia. Texas is one of the leading states in the field of dyslexia. The DFW area has several training centers and many knowledgeable people who have spent their lives researching ways to best meet the needs of the dyslexic learner. If an individual is interested in becoming a dyslexia therapist, the DFW area is the best place to obtain this goal."
Do you have any advice for someone who wants to pursue education as a career goal?
"If you are interested in pursuing a career in education, go and volunteer in a school district and see if you feel this for you. Education is not just a job; it is a calling. It is one of the hardest jobs you will ever do, but it can also be one of the most rewarding. The rewards are not found in a dollar, but in the smiles on a child's face when they make a new discovery. Your efforts have the potential to change the future."
Judy Serrano writes romantic thrillers at www.JudySerraon.com. She graduated from Texas A&M Commerce with a BA in English. She is also a freelance writer for Examiner.com. She lives in Texas with her husband, four boys and five dogs.
