Our Teachers

Paula Smith

Founder of Reading Success Academy

State Certified Elementary Teacher

Certified Reading Therapist

My specialty is getting non-readers, struggling readers, and readers with Dyslexia, back on grade level in 12 clinical hours or less.

I use the Phono-graphix method of teaching reading which was developed for students with Dyslexia. The Phono-Graphix method is based on the Science of Reading. I was trained in person by the program authors and have had success with it in my home-based reading clinic for over twenty years.

I am a married mother of three. I enjoy reading and being a fan of my hometown teams, the Kansas City Chiefs, and the Royals!!!

Ms. Lucie

Hello! My name is Lucie and I'm from Missouri, USA. I have been an English and math tutor for over seven years, working with ages 2-18 years old.

I have a Bachelor of Science, TESOL certification, and a substitute teacher certification.

My goal as your tutor is to increase your reading and speaking skills while giving you confidence to continue your language development. When I'm not teaching, I enjoy spending time with my family, athletic activities, and learning about new and exciting things. I'm looking forward to getting to know you and helping you reach your goals.

Ms. Brenner

Hello! I am an Outschool ACE Educator with TESOL Certification and a Bachelor's Degree.

I teach communications classes including public speaking, writing, English as a second language, and literature. I am a story analyst in the entertainment and book publishing industries. I am a technical writer, specializing in the medical/legal field.

I am a public speaker, a Distinguished Toastmaster, and a member of the District 25 Speakers Bureau. Comedy is my favorite genre, and I try to insert humor into everything I do.

I can’t wait to work with you on your reading, writing, conversational, and public speaking journeys!

Ms. Crozier

Hello! My name is Courtney, and I’m passionate about helping children build confidence and joy in their reading journey.

I have experience teaching young learners, including students with autism, where I focus on creating engaging and supportive lessons that meet each child’s individual needs. I specialize in early literacy, reading, and communication skills, and I believe that every child can thrive with the right encouragement and tools.

My goal is to make reading fun and accessible while helping each student feel successful and proud of their progress. I strive to create a welcoming space where children feel valued, supported, and inspired to keep growing.

Mrs. Bunner

Hello! My name is Andria Bunner. I have 25+ years of experience in education, both in a building and online.

I have had the privilege of holding many positions in education from Teacher to Assistant Principal. My greatest joy has always been helping students.

I also have experience as an Intervention Teachers in Elementary School. I have taught all subjects, but my favorite subject to teach is Reading. I believe all students can learn and grow to become successful readers.

I believe in showing compassion and displaying patience with students.

Mrs. Potter

Hello! My name is Kathy Potter. I am a mom of 3 grown children, a grandma of 8, a wife, and a teacher.

I spent 35+ years as a classroom teacher. I have spent the last 15 months as a Reading Interventionist helping students grow their reading skills. I have experience teaching students of all ages, and have a heart for helping others. Although I have taught all subjects at the elementary level, I have a passion for teaching reading.

I pride myself on building relationships with students so that they feel safe to make mistakes while learning. I create an atmosphere of acceptance as well as respect in my classrooms so that every child knows they are important and valued for who they are.

In my free time, I love to hang out with my family, go camping, read lots of books, attend my grandkids' events, and be physically active.

My goal is to create a safe and happy learning environment where students love to learn and want to come back for more.