Kelly believes that a strong reading foundation opens endless opportunities and all students deserve access to robust foundational literacy instruction. She earned a degree in elementary education from Union University and then went on to join the Memphis Teacher Residency, earning a master’s degree in urban education from Union University. The knowledge and skills learned during her training helped her develop a passion for early literacy, which she implemented while teaching for eight years in Memphis. During her time as an educator, Kelly helped students develop and gain confidence in reading, and she served as lead teacher and teacher mentor while in the classroom. Kelly later became a reading interventionist, where she focused on helping teachers and students close foundational reading gaps. Kelly is excited to team up with ALLMemphis and serve as a program specialist – she hopes to empower teachers as they develop and hone the skills necessary to provide students with the knowledge needed to become skilled readers.