Who I Am.
Hi! I’m Francine Swickheimer.
With 28 years of experience in education, I’ve dedicated my career to helping students become confident, capable readers.
Teaching Forward
I’ve had the privilege of teaching every grade from Kindergarten through 5th, and I’ve supported students across K–12 as a literacy specialist. My journey has taken me from the classroom to leadership roles where I’ve guided schools and districts in strengthening their literacy practices.
Learning Partner
I hold both a Master’s and Doctorate in Reading and Literacy, and I’m certified as a Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist. My work has included serving as a Coordinator of MTSS and RtI,
Director of Literacy, and Head of an Academic Department, all of which have deepened my understanding of how to support diverse learners and implement effective systems of support.
Literacy Empowered
Over the years, I’ve also provided individualized tutoring for students, helping them overcome reading challenges and build the skills they need to succeed. Today, I work as an Educational Specialist, partnering with schools and districts to improve literacy instruction and ensure that all students have access to the tools they need to thrive.
Supporting students—and those who teach them—is my passion. I believe that with the right instruction and support, every child can become a successful reader.
Hi there,
Throughout my career, I have been honored as a Florida Regional Reading Teacher of the Year, a Lee County Teacher of the Year Finalist, and both a Golden Apple Teacher of the Year Finalist and Teacher of Distinction.
I spent nearly 20 years as a classroom teacher before transitioning into roles such as Education Specialist and Coordinator of RtI/MTSS. I have also served in several district-level positions, contributing to literacy initiatives and academic leadership for a charter school system.
– Francine
