About Me

     My core belief is that all children can learn. If children are not learning, it is incumbent upon educators to change their teaching methods so that students can be successful. As a middle school teacher, I spent 15 years adhering to this philosophy, yet there were always a few students who lagged behind despite my best efforts.  ​When my smart, conscientious son began to struggle with basic concepts in elementary school, I researched learning disabilities and discovered that he had dyslexia. Much to my surprise, our public school did not use Structured Literacy, the research-proven method for teaching literacy skills to children and adults with dyslexia.  I took the first of many courses in Structured Literacy, was able to help my son, and then began helping others with similar problems. I have now been doing this work for ten years and I feel privileged to work with many families who need educational support. 

     When not working with students I enjoy gardening, cooking, and spending time with my family and two dogs. I am on the president of the International Dyslexia Association MI Branch.  I regularly attend workshops and trainings to improve my craft and better support my students.

Shannon Koenen, M.Ed
Director of Tutoring Bright Minds