Cheryl has more than 13 years’ experience working with and supporting students with disabilities and their families. For 12 years, she taught students with a wide range of disabilities, focusing on helping each child build their skills, independence and confidence in meaningful ways. For the past 4 years, she has worked in a support role for teachers of students with intellectual and severe disabilities, providing guidance and resources to ensure every learner has access to effective instruction. Cheryl has extensive experience implementing a variety of research-based reading programs and evidence-based strategies, to support literacy development. She also has experience training and coaching teachers with the implementation of these programs. Cheryl’s background has given her a strong foundation in general approaches for teaching students with disabilities, as well as specific techniques to help children become successful readers. Her goal in partnering with parents and families for “Phonics the R-igh-t Way” is to provide practical tools and support to help every child learn to read at their own pace, and share in the celebrations of successes.