Administrative Staff and Clinicians
Meet the team that is responsible for making Reading Write Alaska the premier facility dedicated to helping your child to reach their reading potential
ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF
The heart and soul of Reading Write Alaska. These staff members ensure that each property provides great service for our clients and top-notch support for our clinical staff members.
Heather Walton
Owner / Founder
heather@readingwritealaska.com
Heather is the owner, Speech Language Pathologist and founder of Reading Write Alaska. She spends time in all of the RWA locations but primarily serves as a Clinical Supervisor in the Anchorage office. Heather is from Fort Walton Beach, Florida.
Heather Walton
Owner / Founder
Heather is the owner and founder of Reading Write Alaska. She spends time in all of the RWA locations but primarily serves as a Clinical Supervisor in the Anchorage office. Heather is from Fort Walton Beach, Florida. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Auburn University and went on to earn a Master’s Degree from the University of Montevallo in Speech-Language Pathology in 2000. She accepted her first job in Chattanooga, Tennessee before moving to Anchorage, Alaska in 2010. She has three amazing children. Heather spent 12 years working in the public school system working with pre-school through high school students. Heather gained a passion for language-based learning disabilities through her work in the schools and spent several years taking continuing education courses and graduate level studies specifically regarding the diagnosis and treatment of dyslexia. Heather has earned her IDA certification as a Dyslexia Practitioner. She has also earned the award for continuing education (ACE) from the American Speech and Hearing Association. She is trained in all of the Lindamood Bell Programs, is certified at the Masters Level in The Barton Reading and Spelling Program and believes strongly in using a multisensory approach toward treatment. Heather is licensed by the State of Alaska Department of Commerce, Division of Business and Professional Licensing and holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech, Language, Hearing Association.
Ashly Beckes
Director of Operations
Ashly Beckes
Director of Operations
Alysia Damin
Marketing Director
Alysia is a Speech-Language Pathologist and our Marketing Director. Alysia grew up in a small town located in central New York. As a child, she was surrounded with educators and professionals in the field of speech pathology…
Alysia Damin
Marketing Director / Speech-Language Pathologist
Alysia is a Speech-Language Pathologist and our Marketing Director. Alysia grew up in central New York. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Speech and Language Disabilities in 2011 from SUNY Cortland and went on to receive a Master’s of Science in Education in 2014 from SUNY Potsdam in Reading Literacy with certification to work with populations birth through grade 12. In 2017, Alysia completed her second graduate program, with a Master of Science in Speech Language Pathology from Nova Southeastern University.
Alysia moved to Alaska in 2015 with her husband when his career in the Army sent them on an adventure of a lifetime. She began working at Reading Write Alaska in 2017, where she served as the Clinic Coordinator at the Eagle River location. Since then, the military has taken their family to Germany, Missouri, Washington D.C., and Panamá, where she has continued to work from afar. Alysia and her husband have 3 beautiful children, a cat and a horse and they enjoy traveling the world. She loves reading, adventuring outdoors, taking photos and picking up new hobbies. Alysia is a dedicated military spouse and enjoys volunteering and giving back to her community.
Alysia is certified in the Barton Reading and Spelling System. Alysia is licensed by the State of Alaska Department of Commerce, Division of Business and Professional Licensing, the State of Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance Division of Professional Registration, and the University of the State of New York Education Department Office of Professions as well as approved for work through the Embassy of the United States in Panamá. She holds Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and has received the ASHA Ace Award for continuing education twice.
Angie Freitas
Office Manager
Angie was born and raised in Alaska. She has always had a passion to be in the medical field and loves kids. Angie attended UAA and graduated in 2017 with a certification in Medical Coding and Billing…
Angie Freitas
Office Manager
Angie was born and raised in Alaska. She has always had a passion to be in the medical field and loves kids. Angie attended UAA and graduated in 2017 with a certification in Medical Coding and Billing. After graduating, Angie decided to pursue the wonderful world of child care while she had littles of her own. She worked a little over 3 years at Child’s Early Learning Center. Angie joined the RWA family in August of 2020 and has enjoyed every minute of it! She is a mom of 3 and stays pretty busy. In the summertime you’ll find her outdoors. She and her family love to soak up the midnight sun and fresh cool air. In her spare time, she loves to crochet and do arts and crafts.
Megan Harder
Human Resources Administrator
Meg was born in Moses Lake, Washington and has been living in Anchorage since 2009….
Megan Harder
Human Resources Administrator
Meg was born in Moses Lake, Washington and has been living in Anchorage since 2009. Her passion for people and structure has made working in Human Resources a fulfilling and rewarding career. After work and on the weekends, you can find Meg reading or trying out new recipes for her partner and friends to enjoy.
Rita Markley
Front Office Administrator - Eagle River/Anchorage
Rita is our Front Office Administrator for our Eagle River and Anchorage offices. She was born and raised in Montana…
Rita Markley
Front Desk Administrator – Eagle River/ Anchorage
Rita was born and raised in Montana and came up to the great state of Alaska after graduating from college. Rita fell in love with Alaska and an Alaskan guy and has never left our beautiful state. Rita is a retired Kindergarten teacher who loves working with children and families. In her spare time she enjoys reading, Pilates, and taking walks with her husband and dog.
Melody Garber
Front Desk Administrator - Anchorage
Melody Garber
Front Desk Administrator – Anchorage
Katherine Kosterman
Front Desk Administrator - Wasilla
Katherine was born and primarily raised in Alaska. Hailing from Eagle River and a Graduated of Chugiak High School…
Katherine Kosterman
Front Desk Administrator – Wasilla
Katherine was born and primarily raised in Alaska. Hailing from Eagle River and a Graduated of Chugiak High School. Katherine met her husband in high school and has been married since 1998. Katherine grew up in a musical home with her mother teaching piano and that extended into her early college years as she pursued vocal performance with a focus on opera. While the love of music and performance did not fade, the joy that came from family and children became the focus. Katherine supported her husband through his 20 year military career as a wife and a stay-at-home mother. The military took the family to Oklahoma, Japan, New Mexico, Arizona, as well as being stationed in Alaska and extended visits to South Korea during an unaccompanied tour. With her husband’s retirement from the military and the children mostly grown she returned to the workforce. After a few years in retail, she branched out into office administration and found the work to be extremely rewarding. As a homeschooling mom, education has always been something she was focused on, which brings her to Reading Write Alaska.
Sheena Smith
Medical Billing Manager
Sheena Smith
Medical Billing Manager – Anchorage
Jessica Blevins
Medical Biller
Jessica Blevins
Medical Biller
ANCHORAGE
CLINICAL STAFF
Our Anchorage office has some of the best speech pathologists and occupational therapists in all of Alaska. Learn more about the people that have committed themselves to Anchorage.
Gayle Andrus
Occupational Therapist/ OT Manager
Gayle is an Occupational Therapist and the first to join our staff. She was born in Los Angeles but was raised in the small, northern California town of Murphys. Gayle was attending undergraduate school at a private college in Scotts Valley…
Gayle Andrus
Occupational Therapist
Gayle is an Occupational Therapist and the first to join our staff. She was born in Los Angeles but was raised in the small, northern California town of Murphys. Gayle was attending undergraduate school at a private college in Scotts Valley, California, when she received a summer internship to Juneau and fell in love with Alaska. Following the internship, she returned to school but quickly decided to make the trek back up the AlCan with a friend. Upon settling in Anchorage, she met the love of her life, Brian, who was working at the time for Wien Air Alaska. During the closure of that airline, Gayle and Brian decided to briefly relocate to Tacoma, Washington, for Gayle to complete her Master of Occupational Therapy degree at the University of Puget Sound. They returned to Alaska and Gayle spent the next 32 years at a local hospital specializing in both inpatient and outpatient pediatric therapy. She worked with children experiencing a broad diversity of needs in both physical disabilities and behavioral mental health. In September 2020, Gayle made the decision to join Reading Write in order to expand handwriting and keyboarding services, having always dreamed of specializing in treatment of children with learning disabilities. Gayle and Brian adopted three children who are now grown, two from Russia and one from Alaska. They have one beautiful granddaughter. Gayle enjoys walks and hiking, swimming, kayaking, sailing with a friend in the Sea of Cortez, and is passionate about spinning her own yarn for knitting “because knitting isn’t weird enough!” She is trained in Sensory Integration, TAMO, Interactive Metronome, Therapeutic Listening, and a variety of modalities. Gayle is licensed by the State of Alaska Department of Commerce, Division of Business and Professional Licensing.
Kelsey Coffern
Speech-Language Pathologist / Diagnostic Resource Manager
Kelsey graduated from Texas Tech University with a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology 2018. Trying to escape the Texas heat, she booked a one-way flight to Anchorage, Alaska!
Kelsey Coffern
Speech-Language Pathologist / Diagnostic Resource Manager
Kelsey graduated from Texas Tech University with a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology 2018. Trying to escape the Texas heat, she booked a one-way flight to Anchorage, Alaska! She found her way back to a full-time position at RWA after completing an internship here during graduate school. Kelsey enjoys being involved in all the recreational activities the “Land of the Midnight Sun” has to offer, including hiking, biking, rock-wall climbing, and yoga. She has a special passion for reading and literature and hopes to foster that same love in her students at RWA. Kelsey is licensed by the State of Alaska Department of Commerce, Division of Business and Professional Licensing and holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.
Shannon Dole
Speech-Language Pathologist
shannon@readingwritealaska.com
Shannon Dole
Speech-Language Pathologist
Amanda O’Banion
Speech-Language Pathologist
Amanda returned to Alaska after pursuing her undergraduate degree in Child Development, followed by 3 years of working as a preschool teacher with Childtime Learning Center in Phoenix, AZ.
Amanda O’Banion
Speech-Language Pathologist
Amanda returned to Alaska after pursuing her undergraduate degree in Child Development, followed by 3 years of working as a preschool teacher with Childtime Learning Center in Phoenix, AZ. This inspired her to pursue her Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology at Oklahoma State University. GO POKES! She had aspirations to return to the state where she grew up and returned to Alaska in June 2017. Amanda spent one year with the Anchorage School District, which gave her insight to the school district needs versus the private sector. Amanda was excited about joining the professionals at Reading Write Alaska in 2018, which allows her to enhance her knowledge about the diversified needs in the field of speech-language pathology. Amanda played soccer at the collegiate level and takes pleasure in playing and coaching in the community. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, camping, and appreciating the beauty of Alaska. Her parents and extended family are rooted here in Alaska. She is extremely excited to be back home to share her life with her family and friends. Amanda is licensed by the State of Alaska Department of Commerce, Division of Business and Professional Licensing and holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.
Allie Hoddle
Speech-Language Pathologist
Allie Hoddle
Speech-Language Pathologist
Kailey Tobin
Speech-Language Pathologist
Kailey graduated with her Master of Science degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from East Carolina University. …
Kailey Tobin
Speech-Language Pathologist
Kailey graduated with her Master of Science degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from East Carolina University. She was born and raised here in Anchorage, Alaska and loves it! She has always had a passion for working with children and has experience working with a wide variety of communication disorders in various settings. She is especially looking forward to working with children with literacy-based disabilities at RWA. She loves being able to help children reach their full potential and build confidence! During her free time, she loves adventuring with her fiancé and dog, reading, fishing, and spending time with friends and family. Kailey holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech Language Hearing Association and is licensed by the State of Alaska Department of Commerce, Division of Business and Professional Licensing.
Scott Wiser
Speech-Language Pathologist
Scott recently graduated from Emerson College with a Master’s of Science degree in Communication Disorders. He is originally from Pennsylvania but has lived in Alaska since 2017…
Scott Wiser
Speech-Language Pathologist
Scott recently graduated from Emerson College with a Master’s of Science degree in Communication Disorders. He is originally from Pennsylvania but has lived in Alaska since 2017. He is a winter sports enthusiast enjoying cross country skiing and ice skating. He has a life-long love for reading and enjoys helping people to improve their literacy skills. He has worked for Reading Write Alaska since 2023 and is currently in his clinical fellowship year on his way to achieving his Certificate of Clinical Competence in the field of speech-language pathology.
Karen Fletcher
Speech-Language Pathologist
Karen Fletcher
Speech-Language Pathologist
Eric Wichorek
Speech-Language Pathologist
Eric Wichorek
Speech-Language Pathologist
Kari Meyer
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Kari grew up in a small town in Southern Illinois. After growing up in the Midwest she longed for different scenery. She packed two suitcases and boarded a one-way flight to Alaska to experience the great “Last Frontier”.
Kari Meyer
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Kari grew up in a small town in Southern Illinois. After growing up in the Midwest she longed for different scenery. She packed two suitcases and boarded a one-way flight to Alaska to experience the great “Last Frontier”. She is still here and loves all that Alaska has to offer. In the summer you can find her hiking or bike riding, and in the winter she frequents hockey games. Kari has always been interested in Speech, as she was a speech student in school growing up. It was her love of kids and desire to help them be the best they can be that made Kari want to become a teacher. She obtained her bachelor’s in Elementary Education from Eastern Illinois University. While living in Illinois she taught third grade, but still longed to become a speech pathologist. Kari earned her Bachelors degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Northern Arizona University and is currently in the process of obtaining her Masters in Speech-Language Pathology. Kari joined Reading Write Alaska in 2015 is also certified in the Barton Reading and Spelling System. Kari is licensed by the State of Alaska Department of Commerce, Division of Business, and Professional License and is certified by the American Speech, Language, and Hearing Association.
Marisa Tumbaco
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Marisa is a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant with a passion for helping others communicate and build connections….
Marisa Tumbaco
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Marisa is a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant with a passion for helping others communicate and build connections. She earned my bachelor’s degree in communication sciences and Disorders from Maryville University, and is currently pursuing her master’s degree in communication sciences at Emerson College. Marisa has experience working with children in early intervention and elementary school settings, and being bilingual in English and Spanish helps her connect with families from diverse backgrounds. As a first-generation college graduate, Marisa is proud to use her education and passion to help young learners find their voice.
Originally from El Paso, Texas, as a military spouse Marisa has had the opportunity to live in North Carolina, South Carolina, and now Alaska.
When not working, Marisa loves reading, doing arts and crafts, and finding new ways to be creative. Cooking for others is her love language, although she admits baking isn’t a strong suit! Marisa and her husband have two wonderful children, and being a mom has taught her the patience and empathy she brings to work with children and their families every day.
Marisa looks forward to continuing to learn and grow in this field while making a positive impact on the lives of the children and families she will serve.
Giuliana Harrison
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
giulianna@readingwritealaska.com
Giulianna Ricci
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Makayla Maughan
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
makayla@readingwritealaska.com
Makayla is a proud mother of two who traded the sunshine for the northern lights when her family moved to Alaska…
Makayla Maughan
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Makayla is a proud mother of two who traded the sunshine for the northern lights when her family moved to Alaska. With a deep passion for the great outdoors, you’ll often find her outdoors, exploring new trails, or simply soaking in the breathtaking Alaskan scenery. Makayla graduated from Utah State University with a Bachelor’s in Communication Disorders and Deaf Education, a field she is truly passionate about because it allows her to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
Makayla currently work as an C-SLPA (Speech Language Pathologist Assistant). She thrives on new adventures and cherish every moment spent with her family. Whether embarking on a weekend trip or discovering a new facet of Alaskan life, she is always eager to embrace what comes next.
Tatianna Clary
Speech Language Pathology Assistant
tatianna@readingwritealaska.com
Tatianna has lived in Alaska since birth, she left the state in order to earn a degree in Speech Language Pathology Assisting in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Since graduation in 2021, she worked as an SLPA…
Tatianna Clary
Speech Language Pathologist Assistant
Tatianna has lived in Alaska since birth,she left the state in order to earn a degree in Speech Language Pathology Assisting in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Since graduation in 2021, worked as an SLPA for the Anchorage School District at Williwaw Elementary. Tatianna is very excited to extend her experience into the private practice sector and support more students. Tatianna is licensed by the State of Alaska Department of Commerce, Division of Business and Professional Licensing.
Charlotte Blakesley
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
charlotte@readingwritealaska.com
Charlotte started at Reading Write Alaska in August of 2024. She just recently moved to Alaska from the North Coast of Oregon…
Charlotte Blakesley
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Charlotte started at Reading Write Alaska in August of 2024. She just recently moved to Alaska from the North Coast of Oregon. Charlotte has an undergraduate degree in Environmental Studies from the University of Oregon and a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Portland State University. She did the majority of her supervised fieldwork training within the public schools in Salt Lake City, Utah. She completed her fieldwork here, at RWA. Charlotte worked seasonally for five years between Oregon and Utah, gaining varied experience working with children in the fields of Education, Emergency Medicine, and Outdoor Leadership. She is delighted that the intersection of her passions have brought her to RWA, in a position to help children become the brightest versions of themselves through literacy and language support. Charlotte is so excited to explore Alaska with her partner and new puppy. She loves many outdoor activities, her favorites are skiing, trail running, and surfing.
Tyler Beckes
Teacher / Tutor
Tyler is a Math Tutor for Reading Write Alaska and began working part time in 2018. Tyler grew up in Minnesota and spent 10 years in the United States Air Force, first as a Chinese-Mandarin language analyst, and then as a command post controller.
Tyler Beckes
Math Instructor
Tyler is a Math Tutor for Reading Write Alaska and began working part time in 2018. Tyler grew up in Minnesota and spent 10 years in the United States Air Force, first as a Chinese-Mandarin language analyst, and then as a command post controller. After receiving an honorable discharge for the Air Force, Tyler was employed in the bridge construction field. He realized he truly enjoyed the field of land surveying, so he decided to go back to school for a Geomatics degree. His younger brother and parents had already moved up to Alaska, so it was only natural that Tyler would follow them, and enroll at the University of Alaska-Anchorage.
In his off time, you can usually find him hiking up some mountain, taking lots of pictures, or at a hockey rink, either playing or refereeing. You might also find him in a wood shop, building furniture, or other fun projects.
Tyler has had an affinity for math from a young age and enjoys working with children and watching and helping them discover new ideas making being the math-u-see tutor perfect for him. In his younger days, he was an Eagle Scout, and for a long time, the oldest scout in his troop, so he has been teaching people most of his life. This all adds up to Tyler being enthusiastic about sharing math with young people!
Grace Murphy
Teacher / Tutor
Grace Murphy
EAGLE RIVER
CLINICAL STAFF
The people of Eagle River are fortunate to have such dedicated educators in town. Learn more about the people that help to improve the live of the children they assist.
Robin Ruzic
Speech-Language Pathologist / Clinical Director - Eagle River
Robin Ruzic
Speech-Language Pathologist / Eagle River Clinical Director
Robin was born in Southwest Louisiana in the heart of Cajun Country. She joined Reading Write Alaska in February 2019 where she relocated from Texas with her husband. She holds a master’s degree in communication disorders from the University of Houston and maintains the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) through the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
Christina Panasci
Occupational Therapist
Christina obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Science at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy at Colorado State University.
Christina
Occupational Therapist
Christina obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Science at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy at Colorado State University. She pursued careers in aviation and in finance, yet it was not until she discovered occupational therapy that her passion to make a difference in the lives of others was fulfilled. She has worked in early intervention and pediatric outpatient settings. In her free time, Christina enjoys the outdoors, exploring Alaska, and flying. Christina is licensed by the State of Alaska Department of Commerce.
Eli Skelton
Speech-Language Pathologist
Eli earned his bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, Arkansas. He then earned his master’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of Arkansas…
Eli Skelton
Speech-Language Pathologist
Eli earned his bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, Arkansas. He then earned his master’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock, Arkansas. Eli moved to Anchorage in July 2018, and he is loving every second of it! His favorite hobby is hiking, especially when there is a waterfall at the end! Eli is licensed by the State of Alaska Department of Commerce, Division of Business and Professional Licensing and holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.
Grant Tatge
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Grant earned his bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of North Dakota. For five years, he worked for Denali Borough School District…
Grant Tatge
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Grant earned his bachelor’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of North Dakota. For five years, he worked for Denali Borough School District serving pre-K through 12th-grade students in the Healy, Cantwell and Anderson schools. He moved to Eagle River in 2015 and enjoys working as a full-time Speech-Language Pathology Assistant with Reading Write Alaska at the Eagle River location. Grant feels very blessed to participate in helping children learn and succeed in the vital areas of reading and writing. His favorite hobby is spending time with his family, especially in the Alaskan outdoors camping and fishing. Grant is licensed by the State of Alaska Department of Commerce, Division of Business, and Professional License and is certified by the American Speech, Language, and Hearing Association.
Brooke Plaster
Speech Language Pathology Assistant
brooke@readingwritealaska.com
Brooke is a Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant with a passion for helping children achieve their speech and language goals….
Brooke Plaster
Speech Language Pathology Assistant
Brooke is a Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant with a passion for helping children achieve their speech and language goals. Born and raised in Alaska, she has a passion for exploring the great outdoors alongside with her husky, Blu. They enjoy embarking on adventures including hiking, road trips, rock climbing, and backcountry snowboarding/ xc-skiing. Brooke has been with Reading Write Alaska since fall of 2023, and has loved her time serving the Eagle River community. Brooke received her undergraduate degree in Health Sciences from the University of Alaska Anchorage with a focus in Communication Science and Disorders. She is licensed by the State of Alaska Department of Commerce, Division of Business, and Professional License and is certified by the American Speech, Language, and Hearing Association.
WASILLA
CLINICAL STAFF
Our Wasilla office has some of the best speech pathologists in all of Alaska. Learn more about the people that have committed themselves to helping the children of Wasilla.
Sarah Jacobs
Speech-Language Pathologist
sarah.jacobs@readingwritealaska.com
Sarah Jacobs is a Speech Language Pathologist, born and raised in the mid-west. She received an undergraduate degree in Psychology at Andrews University in Michigan…
Sarah Jacobs
Speech-Language Pathologist
After several years of working in the field of social services, she completed a Masters degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of Utah. Immediately upon graduation, Sarah moved to east Tennessee and worked as a licensed Speech Pathologist in private practice. Sarah contracted in the school setting, worked with adults in home health for two large Healthcare networks in the area, and also engaged the birth to 3 population with in-home therapy services. Seeking adventure, Sarah moved north to Alaska and was blessed with excellent experience in pediatrics with a local private practice over the last 5 years. Sarah has completed Beckman Oral Motor training, Picture Exchange Communication System training, two level of specific training with PRC’s LAMP words for Life AAC application, and courses in Sensory feeding aversion. She is excited to join the team at Reading Write Alaska and take on the new challenges of assisting her clients in achieving their utmost potential. Sarah understands that a positive attitude, encouragement, and belief in each child’s potential will be foundational in their success.
Jean Sargent
Speech-Language Pathologist
Jean earned her master’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from East Carolina University, North Carolina, December 2021. She completed her Certificate of Clinical Competence this year at Reading Write Alaska, Wasilla.
Jean Sargent
Speech-Language Pathologist Clinical Fellow
Jean earned her master’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from East Carolina University, North Carolina, December 2021. She is currently completing her SLP clinical fellowship year at Reading Write Alaska, Wasilla. Jean was born and raised in the farmlands of Clovis, California. She graduated from California State University of Fresno with a BA and teaching certificate in Adapted Physical Education. She taught 11 years in the Visalia School District, CA. When Jean’s husband was offered a position at Providence Hospital in Anchorage, they packed up their family, two small children and two dogs, and moved to the beautiful state of Alaska. Jean’s family enjoyed hiking, fishing, and camping as they made Palmer, AK their home. Jean became a stay-at-home mom for many years. She returned to teaching Adapted PE in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District, traveling from school to school, working with students in grades K-12. Jean determined to pursue a new career path in speech-language pathology. During her internship in the master’s program, at Reading Write Alaska, Jean was introduced to the Barton Reading and Spelling System for Dyslexia. Jean’s family has a history of dyslexia, and she was excited to see the progress of the children at RWA who were working through the Barton program. Jean followed her desire to return to RWA following completion of her master’s degree program.
Elizabeth Ruimveld
Speech-Language Pathologist
elizabeth@readingwritealaska.com
Elizabeth is a Speech-Language Pathologist at our Wasilla location. Elizabeth grew up in a small town just outside Kalamazoo, Michigan. Elizabeth graduated from Western Michigan University…
Elizabeth Ruimveld
Speech-Language Pathologist
Elizabeth is a Speech-Language Pathologist at our Wasilla location. Elizabeth grew up in a small town just outside Kalamazoo, Michigan. Elizabeth graduated from Western Michigan University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. She returned to Western Michigan University to complete a Post Baccalaureate in Speech-Language Pathology followed by moving to Utah to attend Rocky Mountain University of Health Profession graduating with a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology with a medical emphasis. Her final internship brought her to Alaska working in an outpatient pediatric clinic. Elizabeth is excited to be part of the team at Reading Write Alaska utilizing her educational background while fulfilling her passion for pediatrics. Liz is licensed by the State of Alaska Department of Commerce, Division of Business, and Professional License and holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech, Language, and Hearing Association.
Laura Brockman
Speech-Language Pathologist
Laura earned her Bachelor of Arts in Education degree from the University of Nebraska-Kearney in Elementary Education with an emphasis in Early Childhood Special Education….
Laura Brockman
Speech-Language Pathologist
Laura earned her Bachelor of Arts in Education degree from the University of Nebraska-Kearney in Elementary Education with an emphasis in Early Childhood Special Education. She moved to Alaska with her husband and twin sons, making their home in Palmer, Alaska. She taught for several years in private schools. She chose to stay at home with her sons and held various support positions in the Matanuska Susitna Borough School District once they began school. Recently, she completed a post-baccalaureate degree from the University of Alaska-Anchorage in speech language pathology. She completed her clinical hours in the Matanuska Susitna School District, having the opportunity to work with preschool, elementary, and middle school students with varying speech-language disorders. Laura is licensed by the State of Alaska Department of Commerce, Division of Business, and Professional License as a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant. Her work at RWA is the perfect marriage of her background in education and her newly acquired knowledge in speech-language pathology. She looks forward to growing and developing her skills at RWA. She is passionate about helping her clients attain lifelong literacy skills and build their confidence. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and her dog doing all the outdoor activities Alaska has to offer.
Alyna Deishl
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Alyna is a Speech Language Pathologist Assistant and a lifelong Alaskan. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Alaska Anchorage…
Alyna Deishl
Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Alyna is a Speech Language Pathologist Assistant and a lifelong Alaskan. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Alaska Anchorage with a Bachelor’s degree in Health Science and a minor in Speech Language Pathology. Prior to joining the world of pediatric speech therapy, Alyna worked at Alaska Escape Rooms, where she helped design and develop immersive, story-driven adventures. That experience sparked her love for creative problem-solving and deepened her appreciation for the many ways people think and learn. Alyna’s passion for working with children—especially those with dyslexia—stems from her own family’s journey. She is especially dedicated to supporting kids who may be at risk of falling through the cracks and believes there is incredible beauty in the diversity of thinking styles. She is licensed by the State of Alaska Department of Commerce, Division of Business and Professional Licensing and is committed to walking alongside each child as they build confidence and reach their unique potential.
REMOTE
TELECLINICIAN STAFF
These staff members ensure that we can reach clients from across Alaska. We strive to support and grow our presence to those who can benefit from distance therapy.
Alysia Damin
Marketing Director / Speech-Language Pathologist
alysia@readingwritealaska.com
Alysia is a Speech-Language Pathologist and our Marketing Director. Alysia grew up in central New York. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Speech and Language Disabilities in 2011 from SUNY Cortland…
Alysia Damin
Marketing Director / Speech-Language Pathologist
Alysia is a Speech-Language Pathologist and our Marketing Director. Alysia grew up in central New York. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Speech and Language Disabilities in 2011 from SUNY Cortland and went on to receive a Master’s of Science in Education in 2014 from SUNY Potsdam in Reading Literacy with certification to work with populations birth through grade 12. In 2017, Alysia completed her second graduate program, with a Master of Science in Speech Language Pathology from Nova Southeastern University.
Alysia moved to Alaska in 2015 with her husband when his career in the Army sent them on an adventure of a lifetime. She began working at Reading Write Alaska in 2017, where she served as the Clinic Coordinator at the Eagle River location. Since then, the military has taken their family to Germany, Missouri, Washington D.C., and Panamá, where she has continued to work from afar. Alysia and her husband have 3 beautiful children, a cat and a horse and they enjoy traveling the world. She loves reading, adventuring outdoors, taking photos and picking up new hobbies. Alysia is a dedicated military spouse and enjoys volunteering and giving back to her community.
Alysia is certified in the Barton Reading and Spelling System. Alysia is licensed by the State of Alaska Department of Commerce, Division of Business and Professional Licensing, the State of Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance Division of Professional Registration, and the University of the State of New York Education Department Office of Professions as well as approved for work through the Embassy of the United States in Panamá. She holds Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and has received the ASHA Ace Award for continuing education twice.
Sadie Moriarty
Speech-Language Pathologist / Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist
Sadie Moriarty
Speech-Language Pathologist / Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist
Maggie Voinot-Baron
Speech-Language Pathologist
Maggie is a Speech-Language Pathologist. Maggie graduated from Portland State University with a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology in 2011.
Maggie Voinot-Baron
Speech-Language Pathologist
Maggie is a Speech-Language Pathologist. Maggie graduated from Portland State University with a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology in 2011. After working a year in the Seattle School District, she decided to venture up to the beautiful state of Alaska to continue her career and spend more time outdoors. Maggie spent two years working in the Anchorage School District. Through working at Reading Write Alaska part-time, Maggie discovered a huge passion for literacy. She joined the staff full-time in 2014 and has never looked back! Maggie has experience working with children with a variety of communication impairments including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Childhood Apraxia of Speech, and articulation and language delays. Maggie is certified in the Barton Reading and Spelling System. In her spare time, she loves reading, skiing, yoga, and enjoying all that Alaska has to offer! Maggie is licensed by the State of Alaska Department of Commerce, Division of Business and Professional Licensing and holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech, Language, Hearing Association.
Jessie Goben
Speech-Language Pathologist
jessica@readingwritealaska.com
Jessie is a Speech-Language Pathologist at our Wasilla location. She was born and raised in Southwest Missouri and graduated from Missouri State University in 2016 with a Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders.
Jessie Goben
Speech-Language Pathologist
Jessie is a Speech-Language Pathologist at our Wasilla location. She was born and raised in Southwest Missouri and graduated from Missouri State University in 2016 with a Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders. Following graduation, Jessie moved to Austin, Texas and worked in the school district serving children ages preschool to middle school for 3 years and then to Fayetteville, Arkansas where she was employed at an early intervention preschool treating children ages 6 months to 6 years. In the summer of 2021, wanting an adventure, Jessie moved to Alaska and began working at RWA. She is passionate about creating a safe, comfortable, and fun learning environment for children of all ages and backgrounds to feel welcome and supported. When she isn’t at the clinic, you can find her playing with her dog, Jolene, cross-stitching, or traveling in her converted van to find the next adventure! Jessie is licensed by the State of Alaska Department of Commerce, Division of Business, and Professional License and holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech, Language, and Hearing Association.
Mary Mitchell
Speech-Language Pathologist / Certified Breast Feeding Specialist
Mary is a Speech-Language Pathologist. Mary graduated from James Madison University with her Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences…
Mary Mitchell
Speech-Language Pathologist / Certified Breast Feeding Specialist
Mary is a Speech-Language Pathologist. Mary graduated from James Madison University with her Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorder in 2012 and taught a Kindergarten program in Maryland for two years before returning to graduate school. Mary graduated from Radford University with a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology in 2016. After graduating, she decided to move across the country to the beautiful state of Alaska to start her career as an SLP and spend more time exploring outdoors. Mary spent two years working part time at a private practice and full time working in early intervention in Anchorage before moving out of state as a traveling SLP. She missed Alaska and the pediatric population, so she returned and began working at Reading Write Alaska in February 2019. In her spare time, she loves dancing, hiking, skiing, and exploring all that Alaska has to offer! Mary is licensed by the State of Alaska Department of Commerce, Division of Business and Professional Licensing and holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech, Language, Hearing Association.
ANCHORAGE
CHILDCARE STAFF
As an included employment benefit for being part of our on-site Anchorage staff, our Abbott Road building houses our in-house staff childcare; boasting amazing facilities and well-trained teachers.
Karlene Harris
Childcare Director
karlene.harris@readingwritealaska.com
Karlene’s journey in the world of childcare has been life-long. Her mother opened her first childcare center in Montana…
Karlene Harris
Childcare Director
Karlene’s journey in the world of childcare has been life-long. Her mother opened her first childcare center in Montana in the early 90’s when Karlene was just three years old. After growing up in her mom’s centers in Montana, Washington and Alaska, she took her first job with Bright Beginnings at 15, washing dishes in the kitchen of what is now Reading Write Alaska’s new Anchorage location! While working for Bright Beginnings she quickly progressed from support positions to classroom lead positions and ultimately joined the administrative team. After heading the company’s HR department for a few years, she became the Program Director, overseeing operations at 5 locations. After COVID drastically changed the landscape of childcare in Alaska, Karlene sought new opportunities doing what she loves most, working directly with families again. After some time in the pediatric field, Karlene returned to early education and is thrilled to now join the RWA team as Childcare Director. When not at work, you can find Karlene spending time with her dog, husband and family as they enjoy camping, cooking and watching movies together.