Meet Natalie Smoak, MCS’ only Certified Academic Language Therapist
MADISON – Natalie Smoak’s recent achievement grabbed the attention of the Alabama State Board of Education. She is Madison City Schools’ first educator with this achievement.
Smoak has completed training as a Certified Academic Language Therapist or CALT. CALT training includes 200 hours minimum of graduate-level instruction, 700 hours of supervised practicum, successfully completing a national exam and continuing yearly education requirements.
This year, the state board asked new CALTs to join Gov. Kay Ivey in directly promoting Dyslexia Awareness Month in October. For the board meeting, the CALTs wore a sea of red to demonstrate collective commitment to students with dyslexia. Smoak then attended a reception honoring the CALTs hosted by Ivey at the Governor’s Mansion.
The state ALTA board, credentialing organization for dyslexia professionals, presented a pin to Smoak and other CALTs.
“As a CALT, I provide diagnostic, prescriptive and multisensory instruction to help students develop strong reading, spelling and writing skills. Using a structured, evidence- based approach, I integrate visual, auditory and kinesthetic methods to build a deep understanding of the English language,” Smoak said.
With intensive, individualized therapy, she targets each student’s specific needs to improve accuracy and comprehension — helping them become confident, independent readers and writers.
Smoak started working in MCS in 2002. She has taught for Title 1, third grade and fourth grade. Currently, she is a Reading Specialist at Heritage Elementary School.
In 2023, Smoak received a scholarship from Scottish Rite Foundation of Alabama to attend the CALT Dyslexia Therapy Program at University of Alabama. She earned certification in August. Currently, several MCS teachers are pursuing certification.
A major difference exists between tutoring and educational therapy. A therapist doesn’t necessarily focus on a student’s classroom learning or homework, Smoak said. CALTs’ work is diagnostic and develops a student’s structured plan.
During 700-plus hours of practicum for certification, Smoak served 18 MCS students in after- school sessions for two years. This year, she and CALTs in training hosted a Summer Literacy Camp for students to gain skills while enjoying summer fun. Currently, she works with eight students of varying ages before/after school.
“This learning experience has become a passion of mine. I may be the first CALT in MCS, but I won’t be for long,” Smoak said. Two teachers are complet- ing their requirements. “I hope one day to see at least one in every school.”
“Students with dyslexia should be able to receive reading instruction designed specifically for them during the school day, rather than having to work after school when their overworked brains are already tired!” Smoak said. “Having CALTs in our schools is a great way to achieve that dream.”
Until then, Smoak is proud to share her training with Heritage teachers and students. She encourages any teacher with a passion to teach reading to investigate the CALT path.
She earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of North Alabama and a master’s degree in secondary education: reading specialist from UA. She is a National Board Certified Teacher.
Her husband, Bill, retired from teaching for MCS. Their son Anderson, 16, is a junior at James Clemens High School. Not surprisingly, reading is a pastime for Natalie. She also enjoys traveling to Disney World. Natalie devotes many hours to continue learning about dyslexia. “I’ve become a fierce advocate for my students. Everything I learn is for them!”
Currently, UA’s CALT program is accepting applications for the Cohort 5 and Scottish Rite Foundation Scholarships. To apply, visit uacalt.ua.edu.
