Our Focus Literacy Therapists
Sharon Kinzie, M.Ed., CALT (Certified Academic Language Therapist)
For over 30 years, I’ve dedicated my life to education—as a teacher, a principal, and now as a Certified Academic Language Therapist. I began my journey with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Oklahoma State University, followed by a Master’s in Education Administration from the University of Central Oklahoma. I spent 21 wonderful years in the classroom and 9 years as an elementary principal, where I had the privilege of supporting both students and educators every day.
My passion for working with students with dyslexia grew out of a deep desire to understand how children learn—and why some struggle in traditional settings. I became a CALT through intensive training in the Take Flight curriculum from the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital, and I’ve continued to expand my knowledge with additional training in Orton-Gillingham-based programs and other Science of Reading approaches.
For the past four years, I’ve worked closely with children with dyslexia, guiding them through structured, evidence-based therapy that not only strengthens their reading skills but also builds their confidence and independence. I’m equally passionate about partnering with parents and educators—helping them understand how the dyslexic brain works and how to support it with the right tools and mindset. Every child deserves to feel capable, seen, and empowered. Helping them get there isn’t just what I do—it’s who I am.
Eva Jo Hickerson, M.Ed., CALT (Certified Academic Language Therapist)
I’m Eva Jo Hickerson, a dedicated educator with 32 years of experience. Teaching reading has always been my true calling—a passion that comes from deep within. There’s no greater joy than witnessing the moment a student begins to read independently and seeing their confidence soar.
Throughout my career, I’ve continuously sought ways to improve my teaching. I earned a master’s degree in Education and became a certified Reading Specialist. While teaching kindergarten, I trained as a Reading Recovery teacher, and more recently, I became a Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT). Each step has been driven by one purpose: to equip students with the tools they need to become confident, capable, and joyful readers.
I’ve been fortunate to work with students of all ages and learning profiles, always guided by the belief that every child deserves to be a confident reader. Through extensive training in academic language therapy—especially Take Flight, based on the Orton-Gillingham approach—I’ve gained powerful tools to unlock the reading process. Most importantly, I tailor instruction to meet each student’s unique strengths and needs.
I deeply value partnering with parents and educators, knowing how challenging the reading journey can be. My goal is to offer not only effective strategies but also compassion, clarity, and hope. Teaching reading is my passion—it lives in my soul. So, let’s do this together and help your child become the confident, capable reader they were meant to be.
