“It’s all about the spirit of endless possibilities,” says Pat Pieri, a literacy coach with Haley’s Hope. “I see how talented and intelligent my students are. They truly can excel in life.” For Pat, a former elementary reading teacher, Haley’s Hope was the ideal fit for her. She was hired as the organization’s first literacy coach – nine years ago – and fills her days with helping children with dyslexia process and understand information.
As a coach, Pat takes scripted lessons and makes sure it works with each student – individually. In her role, she also becomes their cheerleader, reassuring the children that they are smart and creative.
Pat explains, “Before and after each lesson, it’s a time to get to know each student, particularly what they like to do outside their educational world. Many times using an analogy helps in the learning process. The information becomes more relevant as we bring one of their interests – art, music, sports – into play. Eventually, it can become more automatic and a natural way of learning.”
No longer working full time in a school setting, Pat feels being a literacy coach not only provides structure to her week but also keeps her in the teaching profession. “The need is so great and I wanted to do my part. Plus, I’d miss the kids so much.”
“I know if they get down on themselves, the sun isn’t going to shine brightly. So when I see the excitement they feel when they can read, I know they are going to be successful. They have endless possibilities to look forward to,” says Pat. “I look at one of my first graders and picture them in college or in the workforce. They’ll be doing great things in their community and in the world. That’s such a wonderful bonus I get by being a literacy coach.”