About

My Mission

Provide effective literacy instruction to support my students on their journey of becoming confident, fluent readers.

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About Me

Hi, I’m Sam—a credentialed K–6 public school reading specialist with over a decade of experience supporting young readers. I’m passionate about helping children become confident, fluent readers with my effective, research-based literacy practices. In addition to my classroom experience, I have ten years of private tutoring experience working with students across a range of needs. I use data to drive my structured systematic approach, which is tailored specifically for each child I work with.

Born and raised in the Bay Area, I’ve spent most of my adult life in Sonoma County and am proud to call it home.

I earned my BA in Human Development with minors in Early Childhood Education and Business from Sonoma State University, followed by a California Multiple Subject Teaching Credential from San Francisco State University. After several years in the classroom, I returned to school to become a K–6 Reading Specialist.

Throughout my career, I’ve been drawn to innovative approaches that support student learning needs effectively. I continue to refine my literacy practice through trainings, staying up to date on current research regarding teaching reading and collaborating with fellow literacy leaders. Through Valley of the Moon Learning, my goal is to help children develop a love of reading and become confident, lifelong learners.

Education

  • California Multiple Subject Teaching Credential (Cleared through BTSA) – San Francisco State University

  • BA in Human Development, minors in Early Childhood Education and Business – Sonoma State University

Certifications

  • CA Reading Certificate (Reading and Literacy Added Authorization)

  • Orton-Gillingham trained (2023 & 2021)

  • CLAD Certificate (Cross-cultural, Language, and Academic Development)

Additional Experience

  • Sonoma County Literacy Fellowship Coach

  • CPR Certified

  • Curriculum creator on Teachers Pay Teachers

  • Parent workshops (Kindergarten Readiness & Beginning Reading)

  • Passed RICA, CSET, and CBEST

If you’re a Sonoma County school, organization, or nonprofit interested in collaborating, I’d love to connect!

 ValleyoftheMoonLearning@gmail.com

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Click here to learn more about me, my credentials and experience on LinkedIn

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Click here to view my teaching resources on Teachers Pay Teachers

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Click here to learn more about my services

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Click here to check out what Valley of the Moon Learning is up to on Instagram