a 501c3 nonprofit organization
Illuminations in Meridian
Serving students across over 20 states
Dyslexia Therapy: in-office or by distance tutoring
Comprehensive Language Evaluations
About Us
Our Background
Personalized Lessons
Our Background
The Illuminations Center for Dyslexia was established in May of 2013. As a 501c3 nonprofit organization, Illuminations Center for Dyslexia in Meridian works to change the lives of children in East Mississippi and West Alabama. In addition to our primary mission to teach children to read, write, and spell, we also offer a variety of tutor
The Illuminations Center for Dyslexia was established in May of 2013. As a 501c3 nonprofit organization, Illuminations Center for Dyslexia in Meridian works to change the lives of children in East Mississippi and West Alabama. In addition to our primary mission to teach children to read, write, and spell, we also offer a variety of tutoring services. We work to increase teacher and parent knowledge through public forums and professional development in Meridian and the surrounding areas. Advocacy has been effective in changing the way accommodations and modifications have been implemented for our students in the public school setting. We can work with your family to advocate, educate, and provide professional development.
Our Expertise
Personalized Lessons
Our Background
All therapists at Illuminations have received training in structured literacy methods in a supervised practicum in excess of 800 clinical hours. We use individualized Orton-Gillingham materials from various programs including Neuhaus Education, Wilson Reading, Alphabetic Phonics, and Kendore Learning. Each lesson is individually planned
All therapists at Illuminations have received training in structured literacy methods in a supervised practicum in excess of 800 clinical hours. We use individualized Orton-Gillingham materials from various programs including Neuhaus Education, Wilson Reading, Alphabetic Phonics, and Kendore Learning. Each lesson is individually planned and based on student's unique needs within the structured scope and sequence recommended by the International Dyslexia Association.
We also have excellent, highly-qualified, tutors to help your child excel in school. We offer math, language, and subject area tutoring in addition to traditional therapy services.
Personalized Lessons
Personalized Lessons
Personalized Lessons
We assure the three basic components of effective intervention:
- An expert therapist who has the required knowledge and skills;
- An appropriate, research-backed curriculum that retrains the brain in skills needed for upper-level literacy.
- Deliberate, daily practice to establish the accuracy and fluency needed for the automatic application of l
We assure the three basic components of effective intervention:
- An expert therapist who has the required knowledge and skills;
- An appropriate, research-backed curriculum that retrains the brain in skills needed for upper-level literacy.
- Deliberate, daily practice to establish the accuracy and fluency needed for the automatic application of literacy skills.
In traditional therapy, direct instruction and practice are combined. We require 3-5 lessons weekly for new students. We recommend committing to 50 lessons in a semester to ensure effectiveness of our interventions.
Executive Director
Leta Palmiter, Ed.S., CALT, S.L.D.S
"My mission is to impact the lives of children, adolescents, and adults with explicit, structured literacy instruction. I was privileged to study in the doctoral program at Vanderbilt University for a year before returning to the helm of Illuminations."
I love teaching, and now am blessed to teach teachers with LETRS as well as students at Illuminations. My students range in age from 5 to 75 and many of my former students are now graduates of college with careers of their own!
Meet the Executive Team
Deputy Director
Kelley Davis, M.Ed.
Kelley is an accomplished educator at Northeast Lauderdale High School, and she has been shaping young minds since 1997. A valedictorian from West Lauderdale Attendance Center and summa cum laude graduate with a BS in Secondary Education-English from Mississippi State University-Meridian, Kelley also holds a Master’s in the same field, graduating magna cum laude. With National Board Certification, Kelley's expertise spans English Composition, AP Literature, and a diverse range of subjects including mythology and debate. As English department head and a leader in various school activities, Kelley is committed to fostering academic excellence and student success.
Evaluation Director
Brooke Dewease Smith, M.S., CCC-SLP
Brooke embarked on her professional journey after obtaining her Master’s degree in Speech/Language Pathology from the University of Southern Mississippi in 2002. Since then, she has been a dedicated Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) in the local area, passionately serving the community for over two decades. With the birth of her first child, Brooke's practice underwent a significant transformation, veering towards pediatric speech and language pathology. Over the last sixteen years, her work has primarily focused on supporting the youth of Lauderdale and surrounding counties, enhancing their communication skills and overall development.
Brooke has offered specialized services to children of all ages, while placing a special emphasis on early intervention for the 0-3 years age group.
As the Evaluation Director at Illuminations, Brooke leverages her profound experience and passion for pediatric speech and language pathology. Her commitment to early identification and intervention positions her as a key asset to further serving the children and families of the community, enhancing the support and resources available to them through Illuminations.
Fundraising and Publicity
Anniston Williams
Anniston Williams joins the Illuminations Center for Dyslexia team as our dedicated Fundraising and Publicity Coordinator, bringing a vibrant blend of creativity, organizational skill, and a proven track record of successful fundraising initiatives. Her educational foundation, laid at Northeast High School and furthered with 40 hours of credits from MCC, is complemented by her USAG and Safety Certification. A linchpin in Anniston's career has been her innovative approach to fundraising and publicity. Her adept use of tools like Microsoft Word, Canva, Google Forms, Epic, Excel, PowerPoint, and Google Docs has enabled her to create compelling fundraising campaigns, host competitions, design captivating merchandise, and curate engaging social media content. At Illuminations, Anniston is poised to spearhead our fundraising and publicity efforts with her characteristic enthusiasm, strategic vision, and a deep-seated commitment to our mission. Her role is crucial in ensuring that we continue to make a significant impact in the lives of those we serve, through enhanced community engagement, strategic fundraising events, and compelling storytelling that captures the essence of our work and the hearts of our supporters.
Account Manager and Tutor
Sabrina Bailey brings experience in both scientific research and customer service to her role as account manager. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Mississippi State University, where she was actively involved in outreach initiatives.
Her background includes research experience at the Belmont University School of Pharmacy, where she contributed to studies on macular degeneration, focusing on innovative drug delivery systems. Sabrina also has hands-on experience in the education sector, having tutored children and teens in mathematics and ACT preparation during her earlier involvement with the Illuminations Center for Dyslexia.
In addition to her scientific and educational experience, Sabrina has worked in various customer-facing roles, including as a server at Central Station Grill. Her leadership roles in the Episcopal Canterbury Club and her involvement in the Nashville-Haiti Partnership highlight her commitment to community service and international outreach.
With her diverse skill set and passion for education, Sabrina is well-equipped to support the mission of the Illuminations Center for Dyslexia, helping to manage client relationships and ensure the success of the center's programs.
Receptionist
April Willis
April brings a unique and valuable set of skills to our team, derived from her diverse background and experiences. Her journey has taken her from being a correctional officer to stepping into educational settings as a substitute teacher.
April's roles involved close observation and supervision, critical thinking in assessing behaviors, and a firm grasp on emergency management protocols. April demonstrated her versatility and commitment to student success by managing classrooms, ensuring that learning objectives were met with the same precision and care she applied in her previous roles.
April pays attention to detail, values teamwork, and handles customer communication with ease. She is the first point of contact for our visitors at Illuminations., welcoming every guest with a smile and ensuring a warm, supportive environment for all who walk through our doors.
Meet the Neurocognitive Engineers
Dyslexia Therapist
Dyslexia Therapist
Dyslexia Therapist
Anna Griffin, M.Ed., CALT
Teaching children to read, write, and spell with confidence isn't just a job for me; it's a deep-seated passion that fuels my every day. This journey began not just as an educator but as a parent to a wonderful dyslexic child. We found hope and support at Illuminations. The therapists there didn't just help my da
Anna Griffin, M.Ed., CALT
Teaching children to read, write, and spell with confidence isn't just a job for me; it's a deep-seated passion that fuels my every day. This journey began not just as an educator but as a parent to a wonderful dyslexic child. We found hope and support at Illuminations. The therapists there didn't just help my daughter; they illuminated a path for me, showing me how profound an impact understanding and targeted support can have on a child's life. It was a transformative experience that led me to find my own mission in helping children navigate the complexities of dyslexia.
With a newfound purpose, I pursued and obtained my degree in Dyslexia Therapy from William Carey University. This wasn't just an academic achievement for me; it equipped me with the knowledge, strategies, and understanding necessary to provide effective dyslexia therapy.
Currently, I have the privilege of working with Illuminations, the very place that was a beacon of hope for my family. I offer dyslexia therapy sessions after school and during the summer months, dedicating my time to help children unlock their potential through literacy. My experience as a parent and a therapist has taught me that with the right support, every child has the ability to overcome obstacles and shine brightly. It's incredibly rewarding to be a part of that journey, to witness the transformation as children develop the skills they need to read, write, and spell with confidence. At Illuminations, I'm not just teaching; I'm paying it forward, one word at a time.
Math Interventionist
Dyslexia Therapist
Dyslexia Therapist
Amber Willis-Hayes, B.S.
Amber Willis-Hayes serves as the Assistant to the Directors at the Illuminations Center for Dyslexia, where she plays a pivotal role in supporting the executive, deputy, and evaluation directors. Amber has been recognized for her exceptional contributions, dedication, and the positive impact she has on the orga
Amber Willis-Hayes, B.S.
Amber Willis-Hayes serves as the Assistant to the Directors at the Illuminations Center for Dyslexia, where she plays a pivotal role in supporting the executive, deputy, and evaluation directors. Amber has been recognized for her exceptional contributions, dedication, and the positive impact she has on the organization's growth and success. Her passion for the mission of Illuminations Center for Dyslexia shines through in every task she undertakes, making her a valuable asset to the team. She tutors in math and is working on a math curriculum for children with dyscalculia. Amber will finish her Bachelor's Degree in Education in 2025.
Dyslexia Therapist
Dyslexia Therapist
Behavior Management Tutor
Deena White, M.Ed.
I have been teaching for the last 14 years and have recently earned my Master’s Degree in Education - Dyslexia Therapy from MIssissippi College. I have a passion for teaching children and working with children who struggle to read and write. I understand the struggles that some children have with reading and writing and
Deena White, M.Ed.
I have been teaching for the last 14 years and have recently earned my Master’s Degree in Education - Dyslexia Therapy from MIssissippi College. I have a passion for teaching children and working with children who struggle to read and write. I understand the struggles that some children have with reading and writing and it is my desire to help these children understand how to overcome those challenges. I love seeing the light come on in a child’s eye when he/she “gets” a concept he/she has been struggling with; to know that the child’s self confidence is growing allows me to know that we are heading in the right direction! A child’s pride in him/herself as he/she gains confidence in reading is a wonderful thing to watch!
Behavior Management Tutor
Dyslexia Specialist in training Educational Tutor
Behavior Management Tutor
Colin M. McIntyre, B.A.
I bring a wealth of experience in cognitive behavioral training, social-emotional learning, and conflict resolution to the Illuminations Center for Dyslexia. I have a demonstrated ability to work in urban school districts, identifying and addressing children's needs while fostering a healthy learning environment.
Colin M. McIntyre, B.A.
I bring a wealth of experience in cognitive behavioral training, social-emotional learning, and conflict resolution to the Illuminations Center for Dyslexia. I have a demonstrated ability to work in urban school districts, identifying and addressing children's needs while fostering a healthy learning environment. My professional background includes roles such as SEL teacher at Art Tatum Zone and Alternative Suspension worker at Garfield Elementary. I also have experience in customer service and store management. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Music with a minor in English Creative Writing from the University of Toledo, and I am dedicated to educational equity for every student I teach.
Dyslexia Specialist in training Educational Tutor
Dyslexia Specialist in training Educational Tutor
Dyslexia Specialist in training Educational Tutor
Sophia Seltzer-Hill is an experienced educator with a passion for inclusive and high-quality education. With a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Mississippi State University, she has successfully taught second grade at Henderson Ward Stewart Elementary in Starkville, MS, where she focused on creating an engaging learning e
Sophia Seltzer-Hill is an experienced educator with a passion for inclusive and high-quality education. With a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Mississippi State University, she has successfully taught second grade at Henderson Ward Stewart Elementary in Starkville, MS, where she focused on creating an engaging learning environment and supporting diverse student needs. Her innovative teaching methods have resulted in significant academic growth, including a 95% increase in reading proficiency and 87.5% growth in math proficiency during the 2022-2023 school year. Sophia is certified by the Mississippi Excellence in Teaching Program and holds several technology-related credentials, demonstrating her commitment to integrating digital tools in education. She is also certified in First Aid and CPR and brings a rich background in community involvement and professional growth.
Foster Grandparent
Dyslexia Specialist in training Educational Tutor
Dyslexia Specialist in training Educational Tutor
Thanks to a generous grant from the Multi-County Community Service Agency, we are blessed to have Deke "Granny Deke" Cross as part of our team. Granny Deke brings love and dedication to our students from the moment they enter our lobby, ensuring everything runs smoothly throughout the day. She reads with children, assists with homework,
Thanks to a generous grant from the Multi-County Community Service Agency, we are blessed to have Deke "Granny Deke" Cross as part of our team. Granny Deke brings love and dedication to our students from the moment they enter our lobby, ensuring everything runs smoothly throughout the day. She reads with children, assists with homework, and helps build their character. Her deep passion for the Lord shines through in all that she does, making her an invaluable member of our community. We are truly grateful to have Granny Deke with us!
Tele-Therapy Team of Neurocognitive Engineers
Dyslexia Tele-Therapist and EF coach
Dyslexia Tele-Therapist and EF coach
Dyslexia Tele-Therapist and EF coach
Elizabeth Douge’ M.A., ET/P
I have personally seen the impact that illiteracy can have on a person’s life. Because of this, I have made it my personal goal to tackle illiteracy as a way of changing the lives of clients that I work with.
I am certified to help students with Executive Functioning difficulties and look forward to adding
Elizabeth Douge’ M.A., ET/P
I have personally seen the impact that illiteracy can have on a person’s life. Because of this, I have made it my personal goal to tackle illiteracy as a way of changing the lives of clients that I work with.
I am certified to help students with Executive Functioning difficulties and look forward to adding clients to my therapy roster.
Education B.A. Sociology- University of Southern California (USC); M.A. Special Education with a concentration in Moderate to Severe Disabilities (Point Loma Nazarene University); Certificate in Educational Therapy- University of California Riverside (UCR); Education Specialist Credentials in Mild to Moderate and Moderate to Severe Disabilities. Professionally Certified Educational Therapist (Association of Educational Therapist).
Dyslexia Tele-Therapist
Dyslexia Tele-Therapist and EF coach
Dyslexia Tele-Therapist and EF coach
Dorina Nimigean , BS, OG Tutor
Working with children of all ages, I realized the importance of early detection and
appropriate remediation to address learning difficulties. Both Montessori and
Orton-Gillingham programs equipped me with science-backed and research-based
methods to help struggling readers. Lexercise takes the intervention to a
Dorina Nimigean , BS, OG Tutor
Working with children of all ages, I realized the importance of early detection and
appropriate remediation to address learning difficulties. Both Montessori and
Orton-Gillingham programs equipped me with science-backed and research-based
methods to help struggling readers. Lexercise takes the intervention to a new
level, where the triangle of child-parent-educator is restored to work together.
Hence the faster, better, and lifelong lasting results.
Dyslexia Tele-Therapist
Dyslexia Tele-Therapist and EF coach
Dyslexia Tele-Therapist
Shauna Kelln, B.S.
I love empowering students to become confident and successful readers. Teaching struggling readers via the Lexercise platform is so effective – and seeing the amazing outcome of this instruction is most rewarding! I like being able to tailor the program to meet the individual needs of the student – it works!
I received m
Shauna Kelln, B.S.
I love empowering students to become confident and successful readers. Teaching struggling readers via the Lexercise platform is so effective – and seeing the amazing outcome of this instruction is most rewarding! I like being able to tailor the program to meet the individual needs of the student – it works!
I received my Bachelor's of Secondary Education from Western Washington University in History, English, and Theatre, and then completed another 2-year program in Special Education through the University of Virginia with endorsements in ED, LD, and MR. I have taught for 30 years in all grade levels.
Dyslexia Tele-Therapist
Dyslexia Tele-Therapist
Dyslexia Tele-Therapist
Jinji Donato, MLS
I love to help my clients develop their skills and self-confidence in reading, writing, and self-expression. Helping individuals work toward overcoming their reading challenges is important to me because it means they can access the joys of literacy. I earned my Master's of Liberal Studies degree from Rollins College. I
Jinji Donato, MLS
I love to help my clients develop their skills and self-confidence in reading, writing, and self-expression. Helping individuals work toward overcoming their reading challenges is important to me because it means they can access the joys of literacy. I earned my Master's of Liberal Studies degree from Rollins College. I have received accredited training in structured literacy from Lexercise. I look forward to supporting and advocating for every family I work with.
Dyslexia Tele-Therapist
Dyslexia Tele-Therapist
Dyslexia Tele-Therapist
Laura Rich
As someone deeply rooted in the fields of education and human resources, I find immense joy and fulfillment in cultivating enriching learning environments and fostering strong client relationships. Holding a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Liberty University, my educational foundation has been pivotal in shaping
Laura Rich
As someone deeply rooted in the fields of education and human resources, I find immense joy and fulfillment in cultivating enriching learning environments and fostering strong client relationships. Holding a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Liberty University, my educational foundation has been pivotal in shaping my approach to curriculum development and client engagement.
My professional path has led me to the role of a Dyslexia Therapist in Structured Literacy Teletherapy. Parallel to this, my experience as a homeschooling parent-teacher has equipped me with the skills to instill a love for learning in my children, addressing the unique needs of those with dyslexia, autism, and other learning differences. Whether in the classroom, the real estate market, or the broader community, my goal remains the same: to make a meaningful impact through dedication, innovation, and a heart for service.
Dyslexia Tele-Therapist
Dyslexia Tele-Therapist
Dyslexia Tele-Therapist
Kristen Weaver
Kristen is an accomplished educator with a Master of Science in Elementary Education from Delta State University and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Mississippi State University. She recently finished her practicum to become a Certified Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist. A National Board-Certified T
Kristen Weaver
Kristen is an accomplished educator with a Master of Science in Elementary Education from Delta State University and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Mississippi State University. She recently finished her practicum to become a Certified Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist. A National Board-Certified Teacher since 2013, Kristen has extensive experience teaching various grade levels, currently serving as a Kindergarten teacher at East Rankin Academy. Her diverse background includes roles as a teacher support team advisor, tutor, and substitute teacher, showcasing her commitment to fostering a supportive and dynamic learning environment for students of all ages.
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