Founder and Executive Director
Speech Language Pathologist & Reading Interventionist
Orton-Gillingham Trained and PROMPT Certified

Hi! I’m Deanna - I am a Speech Language Pathologist and certified Special Education teacher!

I worked in the public school system for almost 10 years. I spent the majority of that time working with students with special needs, including children with Dyslexia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and more. I firmly believe every child can learn if you meet them where they are and show them you believe in them!

When I’m not teaching, you can find me on my Peloton bike or Tread, or playing with my mini Goldendoodle, Louie.

Director
Reading Interventionist
Orton-Gillingham Trained Yo hablo español

Hi there! I'm Natalie Lopez, and I have a master’s degree in Special Education. Over the years, I’ve gained experience working with students on the autism spectrum, teaching reading, and supporting English language learners. This spring, I’ll be graduating with my SLPA certification!

My heart is in education. I love nothing more than watching my students grow and celebrating their victories, big or small. It brings me so much joy to see them make progress, and I truly believe that education has the power to transform lives.

When I’m not teaching, you can find me at the beach soaking up the sun, curled up with a good thriller, or spending quality time with my dogs. :)

Assistant Director Reading Interventionist - Virtual Intervention Specialist Orton-Gillingham Trained

Hello there! I am Alicia Lopez, with 5 years of teaching experience in cooperative settings and other educational institutions, focusing on grades K-6. I've taught a wide variety of curriculum both workbook style and online to all of types of learners. Over the past few years I have enjoyed facilitating educational and social groups in my community for ages 7 through 14.

I firmly believe that investing in the growth and development of the next generation is paramount. With a dedicated approach, I bring focus, intentionality, and positive energy to every session because I believe each student deserves nothing less. Teaching is a privilege that allows me to guide students in expanding their knowledge, skills, and self-confidence.

When students encounter challenges, I offer encouragement, support, and praise to help them persevere. I am convinced that confidence is crucial for students to thrive, and I believe that reading opens the door to endless learning opportunities.

I LOVE teaching because I get to help guide students towards a future where they can confidently pursue their dreams and make them a reality!

On a lighter note, I am proud to be a Texas native! I have a soft spot for the Lone Star state due to its vast skies, cowboy culture, and the abundance of delicious Tex-Mex eateries. During my free time, I enjoy hiking trails with my four children, chatting around a cozy bonfire, and enjoying movie nights with popcorn and cuddles.

Lead Reading Interventionist Orton-Gillingham Trained Yo hablo español

Hi, I’m Maria! I have been a speech-language pathology assistant (SLPA) for 3 years and am currently pursuing my master’s degree in speech-language pathology at Emerson College. Through my years as an SLPA I have worked with children with different diagnoses and backgrounds, along with their parents, teachers, and other therapists, to help them obtain more effective communication and achieve academic and personal progress.

I bring a positive energy that combined with my educational skills creates an enriching learning environment that connects learning and fun. I’m excited to continue teaching, learning, and growing alongside my students at Sunshine Literacy!

Reading Interventionist Orton-Gillingham Trained

Hi, my name is Julie, and I am a Broward County Public School ESE teacher working with students with special needs! I am originally from New Jersey where I received a degree in psychology. I came to Florida in 1998 and soon after decided to pursue teaching.

I am currently teaching in a K/1 combined ASD classroom which includes students with varied abilities. I specialize in reading instruction and am trained in multiple intervention programs. I also conduct various reading camps which include students from kindergarten through 5th grade.

I strive to have every child I work with achieve their full potential. I love sharing in their excitement when they realize what they are able to achieve!

Bilingual Speech Language Pathologist & Reading Interventionist
Orton-Gillingham Trained and PROMPT Certified
Yo hablo español

Hi! I’m Carlos - I am a bilingual Speech Language Pathologist and I specialize in early literacy and language skills!

My areas of expertise are phonological awareness, early language and literacy, reading comprehension, expressive/receptive language, articulation, and social skills. My knowledge of how articulation/language impact reading skills helps me to bridge the academic gaps students face in the classroom.

I enjoy watching my students learn and helping them progress through each milestone, skill, and stepping stone in their learning.

Speech Language Pathologist & Reading Interventionist Orton-Gillingham Trained

Hi, my name is Mrs. Mary, and I have been a Speech-Language Pathologist for over three years! I was born and raised in south Florida and enjoy watching the Miami Hurricanes and Miami Dolphins. I played softball growing up and still enjoy playing on an adult coed team. I am married with two beautiful children; we love going to the beach, museums and staying active. During my time as an SLP, I have worked with a variety of students with different diagnoses and backgrounds. I enjoy working with children and adults, helping them learn to effectively communicate.

It is important to work with my student’s support team (teachers, parents, caregivers) ensuring they feel supported and have an understanding of how to best help their loved one succeed. I love what I do and try to make therapy fun and effective.

Everyone deserves a voice to express themselves and to be understood. Communicating effectively creates confidence and pride in yourself and that is what I strive to give my students!

Speech Language Pathologist & Reading Interventionist
Orton-Gillingham Trained and PROMPT Certified

Hi! My name is Rachel. I have been a Speech-Language Pathologist in medical and educational settings for more than 10 years. I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and a Master of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Nova Southeastern University. Most recently, I earned an Education Specialist (EdS) degree in Montessori Education from Barry University. Additionally, I am PROMPT+ trained and an Autism Spectrum Disorder Certified Specialist. I have experience working with individuals of all ages with a wide variety of needs. However, my passions are instilling lifelong curiosity with a love of learning and facilitating connections with others and their environments through all modalities. I spend my free time with my three sons exploring, learning, swimming, practicing martial arts, and making memories. 

Reading Interventionist Orton-Gillingham Trained

Hello! I’m Deidre, and I’ve been a special needs teacher for almost 10 years. I’m known for creating a comfortable learning environment, and flexing my teaching style to what my students need to help them succeed. I love what I do and feel happiest when I’m helping others.

When I'm not working, I love catching the sunrise at the beach, unwinding with some yoga, listening to live music, or getting lost in a good book.

Reading Interventionist Orton-Gillingham Trained

Hi! My name is Carly Robinson! I have a master’s degree in education, specializing in curriculum and instruction and I have been with Broward County Schools for 11 years. Throughout my career, I spent time as a classroom teacher for kindergarten, second, third, and fourth grade. I am currently a reading interventionist where I work with Tier 2 and Tier 3 students in second through fifth grade.

I am passionate about teaching reading! I enjoy watching students grow and gain confidence in themselves as they become stronger readers and writers. I love building strong connections with every student that I work with. I believe that building and fostering these connections also helps my students succeed.

One of my favorite teaching quotes that I live by is “teachers who love teaching, teach children to love learning.”-Anonymous

Reading Interventionist Orton-Gillingham Trained

Hi, I'm Lina! I am a former public school teacher for Broward and the majority of my students had Autism. I enjoy teaching reading because it unlocks the doors to every other subject and many possibilities! My goal is to make each of my students a confident reader so that they can grow into whoever they choose to be!

Administrative Assistant

Hi, I’m Angelika! I am the administrative assistant here at Sunshine Literacy. I am currently studying Speech-Language and Communications Disorders at Nova Southeastern University. I am working towards being a Speech-Language Pathologist.

As I continue to pursue my studies, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the field and work with everyone’s unique needs!

Activities Coordinator and Clerical Assistant (and Deanna’s mother-in-law)

Hi! I’m Vivian! I am a certified early childhood education teacher and have taught children ages 2-5 for the past 20 years. I enjoy spending time with my family, crafting, and most of all, teaching!