New Teacher Feature of the Month⼁Introducing Laura W.
At Pacific Preparatory, we are so lucky to work with the most thoughtful and inspiring instructors, all who bring lessons to life with engaging connections to student interests and their community. This month, we are excited to celebrate Laura, who specializes in teaching literacy using the Orton-Gillingham approach, ensuring that every student, regardless of their level or ability, receives personalized instruction tailored to their unique needs.
Meet Laura (she/her)! With over 25 years in education, she is dedicated to helping all students reach their academic potential. Laura received her MA in Early Childhood Development at Mills College and her BA in English and Political Science at Saint Michael's College in Winooski, Vermont. She holds a California multi-subject teaching credential and a single-subject teaching credential in English. She is also certified in the Orton-Gillingham approach to literacy instruction, which uses systematic, multi-sensory, evidence-based methods to teach reading to learners of all levels and abilities. Laura developed her love and expertise in teaching reading and writing while teaching in Berkeley and Marin County. She embarked on a career shift towards one-on-one education in 2023. She has since been teaching and tutoring elementary and middle school students. She loves getting to know each student as an individual and tailoring her instruction to their specific needs. Outside of teaching, Laura is an avid gardener and lover of the outdoors, and she seeks out live music whenever she can.
What’s your favorite subject to teach and why?
My favorite subject to teach is writing. I know how important it is to be able to express yourself to others. Writing is one way to convey important feelings and viewpoints to an audience. The ability to revise and edit lets the writer refine their thoughts and deliver a message or response that they are proud of. Writing is also an outlet for creativity. Whether writing fiction, poetry, or a narrative this mode of communication allows a student to tap into their own style and use of language. I am continuously delighted by the work that my students produce.
What's one benefit of the 1:1 teaching model did you not expect to find?
When teaching in a 1:1 setting, I am happily surprised at the depth of discussions that I have with my students. Depending on how the student responds to the topic, the lessons take on a new direction each time. Working 1:1 allows so much flexibility within the scope of the curriculum. Each student and each lesson is unique and personal.
What is your favorite activity to do outside of teaching?
One of my favorite activities is spending the night on Mount Tamalpais at the West Point Inn. The only way to get there is by foot with your belongings on your back. The views are spectacular and the company never disappoints. At sunrise, you can see San Francisco above the fog layer!
Laura, we and your students are so lucky to have you on our team! Congratulations on being our New Teacher Feature of the Month!