Academic Directors
Ashley Pizzo, M.Ed. (she/her)
Ashley Pizzo is a highly accomplished literacy expert with an impressive track record as a reading specialist in New York and the District of Columbia. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from Stonehill College and a Master's Degree in Literacy Education from New York University, providing her with a strong educational foundation.
Ashley’s expertise lies in implementing proven, research-based programs for literacy, and she has received extensive training in the I.M.S.E Orton-Gillingham, the Wilson Reading System, and the Wilson Fluency intervention. She is highly skilled in interpreting literacy data to make informed educational decisions, ensuring that her instruction is tailored to meet the specific needs of each student. By conducting thorough diagnostic assessments, Ashley excels in identifying students' strengths and areas for growth, using data-driven insights to guide their progress.
She is particularly thoughtful about how to help students with ADHD, focusing on executive function development: providing strategies that enhance focus, organization, and self-regulation. Her ability to create impactful, individualized learning experiences fosters student growth and success.
Ashley is a mother of two middle school-aged daughters, giving her a personal perspective on student development and learning.
Danielle Foster, M.Ed. (she/her)
Danielle Foster is a highly skilled intervention specialist and educational diagnostician with a wealth of experience in the education field. Having worked in both Washington, DC, and New York, Danielle has a diverse background that includes teaching in special education and general education through sixth grade. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Elementary Education, as well as a Master's Degree in Special Education from Fordham University.
Danielle's dedication to supporting students with dyslexia is evident through her certifications as a Wilson Dyslexia Practitioner and Wilson Fundations Intervention Facilitator. Furthermore, she is certified in IMSE Orton-Gillingham, a highly effective approach to literacy instruction. She is also an Acadience Reading K-6 Mentor, capable of training and supporting schools in assessment (formerly known as DIBELS), and is certified in Brain Frames, a visual tool to organize language.
Danielle's extensive training in various math and literacy intervention programs equips her with the tools to foster optimal academic growth in her students. Through the use of diagnostic assessments, she tailors her instruction to address each student's unique needs, ensuring a personalized and effective learning experience.
In addition to her professional expertise, Danielle is a mother of two elementary-aged children, giving her a personal understanding of children's developmental and educational needs.
