Literacy Specialists

Literacy Team

As literacy specialists we believe that all students need access to high quality literacy instruction. We partner closely with classroom teachers and parents to provide high quality literacy instruction for all students at Soaring Hawk.  
    

Laura Kirk and Kristen Amos

Laura Kirk Literacy Specialist - Kindergarten, First and Second Grades

Hi! My name is Laura Kirk and I am so excited to be a Literacy Specialist at Soaring Hawk this year! This school means so much to me and I love being part of a wonderful community here in Castle Rock.  I’ve been a teacher for 18 years and this will be my 8th year as a Literacy Specialist in Douglas County.  Teaching kids how to read is the best job in the world!

I live in Aurora with my husband Jeff and our two cats.  We moved to Colorado in 2011 and we love all the wonderful things it has to offer.... sunshine, beautiful mountains, fun sports teams, and concerts!  I look forward to getting to know you!

What support do you provide?

As a literacy specialist, I provide support to students and teachers in kindergarten, first, and second grades. I collaborate with classroom teachers to identify and teach students struggling with reading and writing skills and strategies. I am specifically trained in early literacy behaviors and development, as well as how their brain works to remember information. I provide support to students individually and in small groups. All lessons are designed for individual students and provide multiple opportunities for practice. I teach students using a systematic approach to literacy, building on what they already know. 



Kristen Amos Literacy Intervention Specialist

I am so excited to join the amazing educators at Soaring Hawk this year! I am originally from Houston, Texas and moved to Colorado in 2019. I have taught 1st and 2nd grade. I have a master’s degree in Reading from Regis University, and I am Orton-Gillingham trained. I love using structured literacy and evidence-based practices to help every child become a skilled reader! 

I currently live in Highlands Ranch with my husband and 2 kids. Some of my favorite things are the Colorado Avalanche, watching my son play hockey, listening to my daughter play the piano, my English Bulldog (Tater Tot), and being in the mountains with my family.