Hi, I’m Andrea
Credentials and Experience
Masters in Elementary Education (Johns Hopkins University) / Bachelor of Science (Wake Forest University)
Recognized as Teacher of the Year in Charleston County School District
Awarded Excellence in Teaching Award for promoting students’ dramatic academic growth on Standardized Reading Assessment
South Carolina Teaching License
Bilingual in Spanish and English
Over a decade of teaching experience and facilitating social emotional learning groups
Experience piloting and implementing various curricula including those currently used in local Charleston County schools
10+ years of experience working with children with learning disabilities, ASD, ADHD, and Gifted and Talented
Teacher Mentor
Registered Yoga Teacher
Mindfulness Certification
Children’s Yoga Certification
My instructional approach is anchored in several key principles that guide each lesson:
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I strive to foster a genuine passion for reading and cultivate a learning atmosphere that is warm, inclusive, and engaging. I achieve this by introducing a diverse range of engaging texts—stories that spark curiosity, inspire imagination, and reflect learners' lives. By connecting reading to their interests, I help learners discover the joy of books and the adventures they hold. Celebrating all learners’ interests and achievements, no matter how small, fosters a sense of belonging and motivates them to explore new genres.
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Every child is unique, and so is their learning path, style, and pace. At Little Bird Literacy, I prioritize individualized tutoring plans that cater to each student's strengths, interests, and areas for growth. Through ongoing assessments and observations, I tailor my lessons to support emerging readers and challenge advanced learners. I use tailored lesson plans and diverse resources to ensure that every child feels successful and valued.
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I believe in the importance of foundational skills, such as phonemic awareness, vocabulary development, and comprehension strategies. I integrate these elements into my lessons through interactive activities, games, and discussions. By using explicit instruction alongside hands-on experiences, I help students build confidence and fluency, which are essential for lifelong success in literacy.
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Reading is not merely about decoding words; it’s about engaging with texts and developing a deeper understanding. I encourage my students to think critically about what they read by asking open-ended questions, facilitating discussions, and promoting connections to their own experiences. This approach not only enhances comprehension but also empowers students to articulate their thoughts and opinions.
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I believe that cultivating a growth mindset is crucial for developing resilient readers and learners of a new language. I encourage students to view challenges as opportunities for growth and to embrace mistakes as part of the learning process. By encouraging risk-taking and celebrating effort and perseverance, I help my students build confidence in their abilities, fostering a lifelong love of learning.
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I believe that literacy development is a collaborative effort. At Little Bird Literacy, I actively engage with families, provide resources, strategies, and maintain regular communication to support literacy and social skills at home. By fostering a dynamic partnership with families, we will create a strong foundation for students’ learning.