Think differently. Learn differently. Teach differently.

An individualized, research-based, collaborative approach to education.

Meet the Team

Our therapists are highly trained in Structured Literacy and bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to their work.

  • Group Founder & Dyslexia Therapist

    Hello! Welcome to the Umbrella Classroom! My name is Elyse and I am looking forward to working with you and your child. I have 15 years of experience in the field of education. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Kennesaw State University. I also have a Master’s degree in Exceptional Student Education with a focus in Educational Therapy and a graduate certificate in Dyslexia Education from Southeastern University in Lakeland, Florida. I am also certified as a Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist.

    I have been married for 16 years to my high school sweetheart. We have two boys, 3 cats, and 1 dog.

  • Dyslexia Therapist

    Hi! I’m Sarah and I am so excited to work together. With over 11 years of experience in education, I have had the privilege of serving learners as a Kindergarten teacher, Special Education teacher, and Reading Interventionist. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood and Special Education as well as a Master of Science in Education from Gwynedd Mercy University. In addition, I earned a K-12 Supervisor Certificate from Seton Hall University and am a proud graduate of the Lexercise Structured Literacy Practicum, recognized as a Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist.

    My passion lies in supporting all students—especially those with diverse learning needs—through evidence-based instruction and a nurturing, student-centered approach. I’m deeply committed to creating inclusive, engaging learning environments where every child feels valued and empowered to thrive.

    Beyond the classroom, I find my greatest joy in being a mother to my three young daughters, which enriches my perspective as an educator. My Christian faith guides my values and purpose, and I cherish time spent with family—especially at the beach or cooking meals that bring us together. These personal passions ground me and inspire the warmth and care I bring to my work with children and families every day.

Learn More About The Umbrella Classroom

  • Mission & Vision

    Our mission is to equip students and their families with the skills needed to learn and grow academically through research-based interventions, strategies, and approaches. Our vision is to support the whole child and the whole family by creating a supportive learning environment and a sense of community through our shared experiences.

  • Inspiration

    One afternoon as Elyse’s kids played in the rain, she noticed one of her boys holding his umbrella in an unconventional way. Instead of holding it by the handle, he was walking around with it upside down. When she asked him what he was doing, he said he was trying to “catch the rain”.

    She couldn’t help but think of the metaphor between the upside down umbrella and students who learn differently. They often stand out in a crowd, they have a unique approach to life, and they hold unexpected blessings.

  • Core Beliefs

    Our core belief is that all children can learn. Our aim is to see children through a strengths-based lens rather than seeing deficits first. We base this on Psalm 139:14 which says, “I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.”

    We also believe that learning differences are a natural part of the human experience, as all brains are wired differently. What others may see as weakness, God meant for good. “But he said to me, ‘My Grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses so that Christ’s power may rest in me” 2 Corinthians 12:9.