Staff

With a Bachelor of Science in Education for grades 1-8 from East Texas A&M University, I bring a solid foundation of teaching expertise to my role as a specialized reading and writing tutor. I hold a certificate in Orton-Gillingham, an evidence-based approach that is particularly effective for students with dyslexia and other reading difficulties. To deepen my understanding and skills, I completed additional workshops in Syllabication and Morphology through the Orton-Gillingham Online Academy. Also, I completed a course in ADHD from the University of Geneva, equipping me to better support students with attention challenges.

My experience as a curriculum writer for Mailbox Magazine for Educators has honed my ability to create engaging and effective educational materials. I believe teaching reading is about building a relationship—just as the brain forms connections to learn how to read. I am passionate about the science of the reading brain and fascinated by how each word carries its own story, making the journey of learning to read an exciting adventure for all ages. I am dedicated to connecting with my students and empowering them to become confident self-advocates who apply their knowledge of the logic of English.

I have a Bachelor of Science in English Literature and have taken many education classes at Utah Tech University. I have over 35 years of experience with human and child development. I have certificates from the Dyslexia Training Institute and Orton-Gillingham Online Academy. I have participated in workshops and classes from Slingerland, Neuhaus, SPIRE, the International Dyslexia Association, the International Literacy Association, and the Orton-Gillingham Online Academy. I enjoy educating myself and love to help others with learning the way they learn best. 

My family members and I have dyslexia and ADHD. This has given me a unique passion for both the science behind learning differently and the personal connections that make learning fun and engaging. 

I have used my passion to help students as I opened a tutoring center in Southern Utah. Over the past 15 years, I have been able to help students and their parents learn how they learn best, navigate the education system, and grow a business that has blossomed into a community of learners who help each other. I am blessed to be part of three key developments: first, past students who are coming back to help younger students; second, the creation of a micro-school for students with dyslexia and other learning differences due to high demand; and third, a non-profit organization that raises funds to support young families in need of tutoring services. 

My passion and love for what I do bring joy and fulfillment to my life with my husband, four children, two in-law children, and three grandchildren. This is why understanding the science of the brain and its role in learning is important to me. The next generation and our community still need our support.

Hi! I’m Erica Gershman. I have a strong background in education, specializing in reading and behavior interventions. My formal education includes a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction, both from Liberty University. I hold certifications in special education and applied behavior therapy. I am also formally trained and certified in Orton Gillingham, an evidence-based approach that is particularly effective for students with dyslexia and other reading difficulties.

For the last four years, Stride-K12 has afforded me the opportunity to continue to grow as a virtual educator. I have extensive knowledge in virtual education that also includes teaching English to children in China. As part of the VERSE team, I enjoy engaging my students through various online platforms, making learning fun and rigorous for all levels of learning. I believe every child can be a successful learner, we just have to find the best way for them to learn. 

I reside in Western North Carolina with my husband and two sons. In my free time, when we aren’t hiking or waterfall chasing, you can find me tending to our garden and chickens. I enjoy being outside, reading books and researching homesteading.