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Born From A Family Of Educators, I Founded A Learning Center To Change The Life Of Kids For The Better

Originally published on the Teachng website
 

teaching online learning

Interviewing Dr. Levy, an educational expert, business owner, public speaker and author that specialized learning needs in grades Pre-K to 12, you will sure be inspired by this short interview.

Coming from a family of educators, she finds her calling at her young age and started her teaching journey since 1993 as a speaker of an event hosted by Ministry of Education.

We journey with her on her 31 years of teaching journey to become the founder of her own education business in 2004 helping kid and young teens learn better using research based multi-sensory techniques, and here is her story.

Key Takeaways

  • Best attribute you’ll have to become a good educator is Perseverance.
  • Using a multi-sensory approach you can learn easier and faster.
  • As an educator you have the ability to truly change the lives of children for the better.
1.  Hello! Who are you and what subjects or grade levels do you teach?

I am Dr. Emily Levy, an Expert Learning Specialist; Founder and Director of EBL Coaching at EBL Coaching and I teach Grades Pre-K-12; reading, writing, math, and study skills

2. What’s your backstory, and what inspired you to become an educator?

I actually grew up in the field of special education.

My mother was the founder of a school for students with learning disabilities in Florida. I spent much of my childhood working at her school and being trained in various approaches to teaching.

That experience inspired me to later pursue my Master’s Degree in Special Education and my Doctorate Degree in Education.

3. Can you share your experience of your first teaching job and the challenges you faced?

I began by tutoring students on a one-on-one basis and fell in love with how rewarding it was to see these students completely turn around and thrive.

That was when I knew education was my calling, and I decided to pursue my Master’s Degree.

4. What were the initial steps you took to begin your career in education?

One of the first students I tutored had dyslexia and ADHD.

He was in first grade and wasn’t able to read even basic three letter words. Using a multi-sensory approach, I was able to help him build stronger reading skills and he went on to excel in elementary school and beyond.

It was a truly rewarding experience.

5. Since starting, what strategies have you used to engage and motivate your students?

I believe in positive reinforcement and self-esteem building.

Without feeling good about one’s skills it can be hard to thrive in school (and life). I also believe in using a hands-on, multi-sensory approach to teaching.

6. How is your teaching career going today, and what are your future goals?

I have been able to expand my reach from tutoring students in the local area to expanding geographically and now virtually.

I hope to continue this reach and help even more students in other areas, especially areas where specialized teaching resources might not otherwise be available.

7. What are some key lessons you’ve learned throughout your teaching journey?

Perseverance!

Challenges of all types often come up and it is important to make the best decisions given the information you have at that moment.

If the decision ends up being wrong, I believe in learning from my mistakes, analyzing what went wrong, and determining what I can do differently going forward.

8. What tools and resources do you find essential in your teaching practice?

I believe in integrating the most up-to-date evidence-based practices for helping children in all academic areas.

The research is constantly evolving so it’s important to stay on top of it!

9. What books, podcasts, or other resources have been most influential in your development as an educator?

I love Sally Shaywitz’ book Overcoming Dyslexia.

I also often read articles and attend conferences for the International Dyslexia Association, Learning Disability Association of America, and Children and Adults with ADHD.

10. What advice would you give to new educators who are just starting out?

Always remember that in this field, you have the ability to truly change the lives of children for the better. There are not many fields that offer that. It is a truly rewarding career.

11. Are there any particular areas or subjects you’re currently focusing on in your teaching?

Reading, writing, and math – all core academic skills.

12. Where can we go to learn more about you and get connected with you?

You can learn more about me at 

Dear Dr. Levy, My son received an excellent report card. I can’t say enough good things about his EBL tutor. She has done a tremendous job helping him improve his reading and writing skills. Most importantly, she is wise and kind. She is always patient with him. Because of his tutor, my son writes with much more ease.
– Parent