About Us
In The Reading Room, we believe every child deserves to feel confident, capable, and seen. Founded by Heather Halverson, M.A. Ed, M.Sped, a LETRS Science of Reading Grant Recipient and passionate reading specialist with over 20 years of experience, The Reading Room provides expert, personalized reading support for struggling readers in grades 1–5. Using research-based methods in a warm, structured environment, we help children close the reading gap.
What sets us apart? Our incredible, competent team aims to democratize reading support by offering an affordable, flexible program that’s about more than just phonics. It’s about rebuilding self-esteem, celebrating small wins, and creating routines that make reading a joyful part of everyday life. With individualized reading plans, nightly sessions (M–Th), a 1-on-1 component, and biweekly progress updates for families, we take the stress out of reading at home, so kids can thrive and parents can breathe easier.
Meet The Team
Laura Janelle Abad
Reading Specialist
Laura Janelle Abad has been a reading teacher for over ten years, with a Bachelor's in Elementary Education and a Master’s in Special Education. She brings deep knowledge of reading remediation, with training in the Science of Reading, Orton-Gillingham, and extensive knowledge in the structured literacy programs Lexia Core5 and PowerUp.
In The Reading Room, Laura combines structured literacy with strategies from her NILD Educational Therapy training to build students’ cognitive and reading skills step by step.
Her superpower: Methodically analyzing student data to create thoughtful, real-world connections that make reading meaningful and fun.
Fun fact: Laura has an identical twin! They love playing Sky: Children of the Light and relaxing with board games.
Heather Halverson
Founder & Director
Heather Halverson, Director of The Reading Room and New York City’s premier Reading Specialist, has been an educator for over twenty-five years. A LETRS Science of Reading Grant Recipient, Heather has extensive training in reading remediation, including Orton-Gillingham, Lindamood-Bell, PAF, Lexia, and SPIRE. She holds a master’s degree in both education and special education.
Her superpower: "I commit to providing a program where children rebuild their self-esteem by showing them proof of their growth in every session. Once they realize they’re getting the help they need, our students relax, have fun, and start the process of closing the gap."
Fun Fact: Heather enjoys bringing her creativity to the stage, performing in both improv comedy and musical improv!
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Charela Amber Janer
Student Manager
Charela Amber Janer is an experienced special education teacher with over seven years of dedicated service supporting children and their families. She holds a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology, which deepens her understanding of the social, emotional, and learning needs of her students.
Her Superpower: In the Reading Room, Amber creates a safe and engaging environment where every child feels welcome. With a warm smile and a nurturing presence, she builds meaningful connections and thoughtfully guides children through their daily activities.
Rose Ann Regaspi
Student Manager
Rose Ann Regaspi is an experienced, certified educator with a degree in BS Biology. For over
eight years, she has taught students from Kindergarten all the way to Senior High School, giving her a rich perspective on how to adapt complex concepts for different ages, abilities,
and learning styles.
Her superpower: Rose’s gentle demeanor and readiness to smile create an inclusive learning environment where every student feels supported, comfortable, and encouraged to shine!
Fun Fact: Even though I’m tone-deaf, I love karaoke! I proudly represent the 1% of Filipinos who can't carry a tune!
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Carla Vasquez
Student Manager
Dr. Carla Vasquez is a Clinical Psychologist with experience working with people of all ages to support their personal and family well-being. As a conference speaker, she shares valuable insights on emotional health, resilience, and relationships. For the past five years, she has worked closely with children, applying her therapeutic skills to foster growth, confidence, and a love for learning.
Her Superpower: In the Reading Room, Carla blends warmth and expertise to create a safe, encouraging space where children feel understood and motivated. She gently guides them through challenges, helping them discover their strengths and celebrate every step of the process.
Fun Fact: I believe dogs and cats should be awarded honorary PhDs for their ability to make humans happy!
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