What is a Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT)?

Joanna’s professional journey has been marked by growth and a deepening commitment to education. Her experience in Chicago, where she taught as a fourth and sixth-grade teacher in the Brighton Park and Englewood neighborhoods, laid the foundation for her career. She then expanded her horizons as a literacy coach and interventionist in East Aurora before deciding to pursue her certification as an academic language therapist, a testament to her continuous learning and dedication to the field of education.

As a Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT), Joanna was accepted into the Academic Language Therapy Association. She is highly qualified and experienced in providing multisensory structured literacy instruction for students diagnosed with language-based learning differences such as dyslexia and dysgraphia. Her specialization in BUILD, a K-1 early reading intervention, and Take Flight: A Comprehensive Intervention for Students With Dyslexia, further demonstrates her deep understanding and proficiency in the field. Joanna finds no greater joy than to guide a student on their journey to reading. With a blend of fun, creativity, and passion, Joanna offers students an intimate educational experience that not only develops their literacy skills but also enhances their self-confidence, grit, and resilience. Her approach instills a sense of hope and possibility in every student she works with. She is beyond excited to offer academic language therapy within her own community and be part of the Plum Tree team!

Joanna’s certification as a Certified Academic Language Therapist includes the following:

• 200 + Academic hours of dyslexia and related learning disability studies

• 700 Clinical teaching hours providing dyslexia therapy using Take Flight: A Comprehensive Intervention for Students with Dyslexia

• Passing the ALTA Competency Exam

• Review and acceptance into the Academic Language Therapy Association or ALTA

• Certified Academic Language Therapists are highly qualified in multisensory structured literacy, specifically for students with dyslexia, dysgraphia, and ADHD