Jordyn Rourke

One of the most sought-after early literacy specialists, Jordyn is known for her magical ability to engage even the most reluctant learners. Originally on track to become a lead high school English teacher, Jordyn ultimately discovered her passion lay in working closely with students one-on-one or in small groups, where she could make the most significant impact. While working for an academic support agency, Jordyn learned about the literacy crisis in America—a nationwide issue where nearly 65% of fourth graders are reading below proficiency levels. It was a defining moment for her—a realization that "this is it; this is what I’m meant to do. Helping kids learn to read is where I can make the greatest difference." This awareness deepened her commitment to literacy education and fueled her dedication to helping students build strong foundational skills for lifelong success. Jordyn is driven by the fundamental belief that "access to literacy is access to knowledge." She sees literacy not just as a skill but as the key to unlocking possibilities—opening doors to learning, critical thinking, and personal empowerment. For Jordyn, teaching a child to read is giving them the ability to explore the world, pursue their passions, and shape their future with confidence and autonomy. This philosophy is central to her work and motivates her to create an environment where students don't just learn how to read but also develop a love for it. One of her most transformative experiences came when she matched with a student who had been labeled a "resistant learner" due to his dyslexia and adverse relationship with reading. When she tried using the standard workbooks and approach, he resisted to the point of refusal. This challenged Jordyn to gamify every lesson, turning the learning experience into something engaging and enjoyable. Not only did this change in approach make the lessons more fun for the student, but it also revitalized her own teaching. That student, who began his journey with Jordyn in second grade, is now entering his sophomore year at his first-choice high school, where he ranks at the top of his class. This experience reinforced Jordyn's belief in the power of evidence-backed, personalized, play-based learning and continues to inspire her work.

Today, Jordyn has developed a novel curriculum that blends evidence-based Orton-Gillingham instruction with highly personalized activities that tap into each student's interests. She sequences the essential skills of reading mastery while incorporating play and games to maximize engagement. In her innovative online learning program, students create their own virtual classroom spaces and design activities that bring their learning to life, transforming their experience with reading. Jordyn's approach fosters a positive, joyful relationship with reading while maintaining the structure necessary for success. It's not unusual to hear laughter and music during her sessions, as she believes play is the most effective way to support learning outcomes without compromising efficacy. In her free time, Jordyn enjoys surfing, reading, and exploring her local record stores. Living in the vibrant community of Venice, California, she finds daily inspiration from her surroundings, whether skateboarding at sunset or attending local art events.