CALGARY TEAM

Since founding The Reading Foundation in 1990 Steve continues to innovate – expanding our remediation programs across subjects, incorporating the latest research findings, and effectively integrating technology into our practice. His Ph.D. specializing in learning theory from the University of Calgary along with his extensive experience at all levels of the school system allow Steve to expertly assess student needs. As Founding Director of The Reading Foundation, Steve’s own love of learning is reflected in the enthusiasm and determination of both our staff and students.

Steve has authored several books, publications and research articles. In 2003 he was honored to be recognized among the top 100 graduates from the University of Calgary.

In his spare time, Steve enjoys reading, spending time with his grandchildren, playing tennis and other racquet sports, as well as his hobby as a singer/songwriter.

Alita is the dedicated Director of Operations for all four Reading Foundation clinics. Her warm and caring style sets the tone at The Reading Foundation as she oversees all operations that happen at our clinics. Alita joined The Reading Foundation in 1999 and has had roles such as Clinician, Assessor and Office Manager. Her leadership and ability to see the big picture led to her taking on her current position. While efficiently managing operations, she continues to maintain contact with the families we work with. She believes in building strong relationships in the community with industry professionals. She is likely to be the person who answers your inquiries. She also assesses students coming into our programs and has years of clinical experience teaching our students.

Alita has a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology with a minor in Spanish. She enjoys many sports, has traveled and lived overseas and speaks both English and Spanish. Alita has three children, all of whom are alumni of The Reading Foundation.

Devan is the Director of Standards for all of our locations. She has worked extensively in all aspects of The Reading Foundation including Team Leading, scheduling, training (both new staff internally or teachers externally), mentoring staff, developing programs and assessing incoming students. She has had a leadership role in all of our clinics (Assistant Director, Calgary; clinic opening, Toronto; Director, Vancouver). She is an excellent leader and brings her knowledge to the students, parents and staff that she works with daily.

Devan has a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics and has worked for The Reading Foundation since 1999. When she isn't working, she enjoys traveling, reading and almost every mountain activity.

Since 2004, Amanda has been an asset to The Reading Foundation team. Her adaptability, quick thinking, organization and calm demeanor enable her to thrive as the Assistant Director of Operations for all four of our clinics. Although she can usually be found in Calgary, Amanda travels to our other cities to ensure the continuity of operations there. Amanda oversees the human resources and community relations activities for The Reading Foundation. She uses her many years of clinical experience to guide her in her diverse role, drawing on knowledge gained from experience in other positions she's held in the company, including team leading, training, mentoring staff, administration and scheduling.

Amanda holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Calgary, with a focus on child development. Outside of work, she can be found in her garden talking to bees, cooking something delicious in her kitchen or cheering on her two active sons in their many activities and passions.

Since The Reading Foundation opened its doors in 1990, Sabine has been a valuable member of our team. As one of Calgary’s Assistant Directors, Sabine’s conscientiousness allows her to skillfully assess students and guide them effectively through our programs. Sabine is a compassionate educator and connects meaningfully with each student she teaches. She is also an important contributor to the development of our remedial programs, Discover Meaning in particular.

Sabine’s first degree was a Bachelor of Arts in French with a minor in Linguistics. She later completed a Graduate Diploma in Educational Psychology with a specialization in guidance & counseling. An active mother of three teenaged children, Sabine loves music and hiking whenever she can find the time.

Jayelene is the Calgary clinic’s dedicated Team Leader Supervisor and has been with The Reading Foundation since 2000. She also performs intake assessments for new students. In addition to being organized and conscientious in all areas of her work, Jayelene’s outgoing and energetic nature as well as a creative teaching style make her well loved by students. She played an important role in the development of Discover Reading’s Beginner Level. Jayelene has a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics from the University of Calgary. Outside of The Reading Foundation, Jayelene has a passion for her own life-long learning, enjoys traveling and her busy life with her young son.

As a Team Leader at the Calgary clinic, Josh manages student programs and monitors progress with great attention to detail. His students benefit greatly from the kindness and humour he brings to each hour. Josh is also passionate about writing and has contributed this skill to the development of our Discover Meaning program, writing much of the curriculum content. He has worked at The Reading Foundation since 2007 and has a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Calgary. Josh keeps his math skills sharp by following professional sports statistics and enjoys playing hockey when he isn’t working or spending time with his wife and three young sons.

Since 2006, Bethany has been a cheerful and diligent member of our staff. Her careful and caring teaching style allowed her to excel as a clinician. Now as a Team Leader, Bethany confidently leads each student through their programs. Her own love of learning drives her teaching and she eagerly shares this enthusiasm with her students. Bethany has a Bachelor of Arts with Honours in English from the University of Calgary. Outside of the office, you will still find Bethany with her nose in a book, reading anything from Shakespearean plays to the latest young adult fiction.

Through her work as a clinician, Andrea discovered a passion for making learning a creative, fun, and enriching process. Now, as a Team Leader, she works hard to keep students engaged while providing guidance and support throughout their programs. She has found that overseeing her students’ progression through the programs has been fulfilling as she gets to see their abilities and confidence grow. Andrea has a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics as well as a minor in Cultural Anthropology from the University of Calgary. In her spare time, you will find her hiking with her dog Maia in the summer or snowboarding in the winter.