My name is Maria Boyd. I am a mom, a teacher, and an advocate for children who learn differently.

I began teaching young children after my twins were born. I started in a small preschool in Venice run by two wonderful woman (Susie and Amanda Leanord) They taught me the importance of fostering social skills and independence at a young age. It was there I would work with children who were neuro-diverse and decided I could do more for these children.

I became a Behavioral Interventionist. Working with children who struggled academically and behaviorally in a school setting. Each child I worked with was exceptionally bright, yet learned differently than the rest of their peers. They required patience, time, and understanding on how their brain works. Most importantly they needed an advocate in the school setting who understood and supported them.

During this time my own children were growing up and learning to read and write. My daughter would be diagnosed with Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, ADHD and Anxiety. I immersed myself in learning as much as I possibly could to help her. My son would be diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, severe anxiety and twice exceptional.

This journey with my own children would ignite a whole new passion in me for helping children like my own and understanding their struggles.

I became a Learning Specialist; specializing in Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia and twice exceptional children. I became certified in Orton Gilingham and received my ‘Advanced Knowledge in Dyslexia for a Classroom Teacher’ from the International Dyslexia Association. I became clinically certified in Social Thinking and have trained teachers and staff on the methodology through classes and professional developments.

I am a teacher and advocate for children who learn differently.

I believe all children are smart.

I believe all children deserve to feel smart.

I believe we can make every child feel this way about themselves.