Love is a big part of Sandy Williams’ life. Williams finds love everywhere she goes, whether it be within her job or her passion for learning. A part of this deep affection that Williams fosters is a love for people – and that is what led her to SLD Read. 

An educator for 37 years, Williams retired from teaching in 2018. At the end of her career,  a friend stopped in at Williams’ school and told her about SLD Read. Later, after Williams retired, she went on to get Orton Gillingham trained, and ended up joining SLD Read. 

“I got really lucky,” says Williams. “It’s given me more meaning in my life as I retire.” 

In her time at SLD Read, Williams has gone on to become a tutor mentor. As a tutor mentor, Williams helps to train tutors after their initial orientation to the SLD Read program. Williams works with both tutors and students. 

All of Williams’ work with SLD Read is driven by one central force: she has a love of working alongside people. 

“One of my favorite things about working with SLD is being able to talk to people,” says Williams. “I like getting to know their life story.” 

Becoming a teacher, and later a tutor with SLD Read, gave Williams an opportunity to advocate for people who have disabilities. 

“Growing up the way I did taught me to have a lot of empathy,” says Williams. “A lot of people won’t understand a disability until they have one or live with someone who has one.” 

All of these experiences together make Williams who she is. As she tutors, Williams encourages her students to make mistakes. 

“Never give up,” says Williams. “Making mistakes is a part of learning. If something sounds cumbersome, let us know. We’ll break it down for you so you can understand.” 

According to Williams, though learning can be difficult, it is never impossible. 

“You just have to find your pathway.”