Amanda Bays, M.A., C-LSDI

Thank you for inquiring about Growing Literacy & Beyond LLC!

My name is Amanda Bays. I am a Certified Structured Literacy Dyslexia Interventionist (C-SLDI) with a master's degree in Reading Science as well as an Orton-Gillingham certification. I earned my master's degree and Orton-Gillingham certification through Mount Saint Joseph University, a program with International Dyslexia Association Accreditation Plus. I am an Arizona Certified Reading Specialist and hold a K-5 Teaching Certificate. Additionally, I am trained in Reading Simplified and am currently pursuing certification through their program.

​I have served in public education for over 17 years, teaching 1st, 2nd, and 4th grades. Prior to founding Growing Literacy & Beyond LLC three years ago, I served as Reading Specialist in a K-5 elementary school. In addition to teaching in a school setting, I have provided tutoring to students ranging from kindergarten through high school in both virtually and in person settings.

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I am passionate about helping all students achieve proficiency in literacy. To ensure I am staying up to date with the latest evidence-based practices, I attend ongoing training opportunities and am a member of The Reading League, Reading Science Academy, and The International Dyslexia Association, giving me access to the latest literature. This not only allows me to support my students in the best way possible, but helps me empower families with knowledge to support their learner.

In addition to my professional experience of working with students of varying needs, I am also a mom of 14-year-old twin girls who were identified as being dyslexic in 2nd grade. Being a parent of dyslexic learners has given me the unique opportunity to see and experience what it is like for dyslexic learners to navigate school and what it is like for parents of a struggling student. I have a great amount of empathy and respect for struggling students and

their parents.

My goal as a tutor is to help all students learn to read and build the confidence they deserve.