Empowering Confidence

Reading Success Academy specializes in getting beginning readers and struggling readers on grade level in 3 months or less!

About Us

Reading Success Academy was founded by Paula Smith in October of 2000 as Midwest Reading Clinic. In 2015 Paula changed the name to Reading Success Academy as her business expanded to a global market.

Since March of 2020, Paula has been teaching virtually through Zoom for not only her private students, but on the Outschool.com global learning platform. She now serves students all over the world who need reading and spelling help by using the Phono-Graphix method.

Due to increased demand for tutoring services, Paula expanded to an organization in May of 2024 with a team of five teachers.

Paula Smith - Founder

Our Team

Teacher qualifications:

Lead teacher and curriculum creator, Paula Smith, is certified in Elementary Education for grades 1-6 in the state of Missouri. She is also a certified Reading Therapist by Read America.

Paula trained directly with the authors of the Phono-Graphix method in 2000. This method gets kids reading on grade level in 12 clinical hours or less.

She is a Certified Phono-Graphix Trainer offering the Phono-Graphix Certification course for parents and teachers who would like to become certified in the method. Please complete the form on our Contact Us page to inquire about the next available certification course.

Paula has six years of classroom teaching experience as well as 25 years of clinical experience as a Reading Therapist.

Our team has received Phono-Graphix training from Paula and brings diverse certifications, extensive experience, and a minimum of two years of experience teaching online.

Ms. Lucie

Hello! My name is Lucie and I'm from Missouri, USA. I have been an English and math tutor for over seven years, working with ages 2-18 years old. I have over three years of experience teaching English online to speakers of other languages.

My goal as your teacher is to increase your reading and speaking skills while giving you the confidence to continue your language development. When I'm not teaching, I enjoy spending time with my family, athletic activities, and learning about new and exciting things.

Bachelor's Degree and TESOL Certified

Mrs. Brenner

Hello! I am an Outschool ACE Educator!

I teach communications classes including public speaking, writing, English as a second language, and literature. I am a story analyst in the entertainment and book publishing industries. I am a technical writer, specializing in the medical/legal field.

I am a public speaker, a Distinguished Toastmaster, and a member of the District 25 Speakers Bureau.

Comedy is my favorite genre, and I try to insert humor into everything I do.

Bachelor's Degree and TESOL Certified

Ms. Potter

Hello, my name is Kathy Potter. I spent 35+ years as a classroom teacher. I have spent the last 15 months as a Reading Interventionist.

I have experience teaching students of all ages and have a heart for helping others. Although I have taught all subjects, I have a passion for teaching reading.

I pride myself on building relationships with students so they feel safe to make mistakes while learning. I create an atmosphere of acceptance as well as respect in my classrooms so every child knows they are important and valued for who they are.

Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education,

Reading Endorsement K-12

Ms. Crozier

Hello! My name is Courtney, and I’m passionate about helping children build confidence and joy in their reading journey.

I have experience teaching young learners, including students with autism, where I focus on creating engaging and supportive lessons that meet each child’s needs.

I specialize in early literacy, reading, and communication skills, and I believe that every child can thrive with the right encouragement and tools.

My goal is to make reading fun and accessible.

Bachelor'sDegree in Elementary Education

Master's Degree in Special Education

Mrs. Bunner

Hello! My name is Andria Bunner. I have 25+ years of experience in education, both in a building and online.

I have had the privilege of holding many positions in education from Teacher to Assistant Principal. My greatest joy has always been helping students.

I also have experience as an Intervention Teachers in Elementary School. I have taught all subjects, but my favorite subject to teach is Reading. I believe all students can learn and grow to become successful readers.

I believe in showing compassion and displaying patience with students.