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About Me

Welcome! I’m Jennifer Burkhart, founder of Thrive Structured Literacy, and I’m passionate about helping students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences discover their strengths and become confident, capable readers and writers.

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My journey into dyslexia intervention began not only as an educator but also as a mother. After watching my own daughter navigate the challenges of dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia within the public school system, I developed a deep understanding of the importance of individualized, evidence-based instruction and the difference it can make in a child's life. That experience inspired me to pursue specialized training and dedicate my career to helping students who learn differently.​

Jennifer Burkhart - Thrive Structured Literacy

Jennifer Burkhart

M.A.T., CALT-QI in training, C-SLDS

Dyslexia Specialist

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Averett University and a Master’s in the Art of Teaching with a Reading Specialist focus from Colorado College. I am a Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT) through the Academic Language Therapy Association (ALTA) and a Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist (C-SLDS) certified by the Center for Effective Reading Instruction. My background as a licensed secondary English teacher, working with students in grades 7–12, has shaped my understanding of literacy development and the importance of building strong foundational skills.

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My passion for making a difference has extended beyond my work with individual students. I played a pivotal role in establishing one of the first public schools in Colorado Springs dedicated to supporting students with dyslexia. I also founded my own online practice to expand access to qualified dyslexia intervention, working with students in Colorado, California, and Canada. Most recently, I worked at an all-boys boarding school as a dyslexia specialist. 

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At Thrive Structured Literacy, I believe every student deserves instruction that meets their individual needs, celebrates their progress, and helps them recognize their potential. My approach is rooted in structured, systematic, and evidence-based literacy instruction, paired with encouragement, patience, and a genuine understanding of the challenges students may face along the way.

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I am continually growing as an educator and am currently working toward certification as a Qualified Instructor through ALTA. My commitment to lifelong learning reflects my belief that students deserve knowledgeable, dedicated professionals who are always striving to provide the highest quality instruction.

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Above all, I want my students to know that their learning differences do not define their potential. It is my privilege to walk alongside students and families as they build skills, confidence, and a stronger foundation for lifelong learning.

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Welcome to Thrive Structured Literacy. I’m so glad you’re here!

My Credentials

Education

Master of Arts in Teaching - Reading Specialist (M.A.T.) – Colorado College

 

Bachelor of Arts – Averett University

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Professional Credentials

Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT) – Academic Language Therapy Association (ALTA)

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Certified Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist (C-SLDS) – Center for Effective Reading Instruction (CERI)

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Professional Teaching License, Colorado - Secondary English​

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Professional Contributions

Published contributor to The Reading League Vermont (2026), authoring an article on instructional strategies for teaching phonological awareness.

“If you have kids who are struggling with dyslexia, the greatest gift you can give them is the sense that nothing is unattainable. With dyslexia comes a very great gift, which is the way that your mind can think creatively." Orlando Bloom, Actor
Child Mind Institute
 

Thrive Structured Literacy

319 S. Naperville Road

Suite 203

Wheaton, IL 60187

Thrive Structured Literacy provides personalized, evidence-based support for students with dyslexia, helping them build strong reading skills, confidence, and long-term academic success.

ALTA - Thrive Structured Literacy
CERI - Thrive Structured Literacy

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