Meet Our Structured Literacy Specialists

Behind The Virtual Classroom

We’re a small team of certified educators who specialize in helping struggling readers thrive. Every member of our team holds advanced degrees in education, along with extensive training in the Science of Reading and Structured Literacy.

We’re not a big tutoring company that hires college students or follows a one-size-fits-all script. We’re veteran teachers who know how to connect with kids, figure out what’s really going on, and build the skills and confidence they need to grow.

We care deeply about the work we do and it shows in the relationships we build, the results we get, and the joy we see when things finally click.

Meet The Founder

Alicia L. Burchell, M .Ed.

Ali Burchell is the founder of The Virtual Classroom, a certified reading specialist, instructional coach, and published author with over 15 years of experience in education. As an AuDHD individual and a parent of two neurodiverse children, she deeply understands the complexities of diverse learning needs, both in the classroom and at home.

She launched The Virtual Classroom in response to the alarming literacy and math outcomes reported in each year in the NAEP Report Card. In 2022, it showed that 67% of 4th graders were reading below grade level and 64% were below grade level in math.

Ali set out to change those outcomes by:

Styled Bullet List

Delivering effective, research-proven instruction that helps all students
Equipping parents with the tools and confidence to support learning at home
Advocating for structured literacy and evidence-based practices in classrooms

Ali lives in Millerstown, PA with her husband and two daughters. When she’s not teaching or supporting families, she enjoys being at the beach, hiking in the mountains, or jet skiing across the lake.

Publications

Digital Learning in High-Needs Schools A Critical Approach to Technology Access and Equity in PreK-12

Chapter 13: Using Bitmoji and Google Classroom to Support Remote Literacy Instruction in High-Needs Schools

In this chapter, Grimes and Burchell explore how digital classrooms—powered by Bitmojis and Google Classroom—can engage students in rural communities and offer opportunities to improve outcomes both in remote and in-person learning environments.

Credentials & Certifications

Masters of Education

PK-12 Reading Specialist & Instructional Coaching

Bachelor of Science in Education

K-6 Elementary & Kindergarten Education

PA Certification Instructional Level II
• Elementary Education K-6
• Reading Specialist PK-12
• Instructional Coaching: Literacy Emphasis Endorsement

Meet the People Who Make It Happen

Molly Leader, M.Ed.

Structured Literacy Specialist | Certified Reading Specialist

Molly is a former Kindergarten and First Grade teacher and now a Reading Specialist with six years of experience. She supports students both virtually and in person at our New Bloomfield, PA Learning Center. Molly brings creativity and fun to every session, helping students stay engaged while building skills that last. Outside the classroom, she enjoys traveling, fall weather, and cheering on her favorite sports teams.

Abby Leonard, M.Ed.

Structured Literacy Specialist | Certified Orton-Gillingham Instructor

Abby holds a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction and is Orton-Gillingham certified. She leads small groups, private sessions, and assessments at The Virtual Classroom. Abby’s calm, encouraging presence helps students feel confident and capable every step of the way. In her free time, she enjoys reading, painting, and spending time with loved ones.

Jennifer Maia, M.Ed.

Structured Literacy Specialist | Certified Reading Specialist

Jennifer brings 20 years of experience and a passion for early literacy. She’s a certified Reading Specialist with a master’s degree in Literacy and currently teaches Kindergarten. Her nurturing, student-centered approach helps young learners feel safe, supported, and ready to grow. Jennifer loves hiking in the White Mountains and spending time with her family—including her turtle and Shih Tzu.

Mallory Fuentes, M.Ed.

Structured Literacy Specialist | Certified Special Education Teacher

Mallory is a Special Education teacher with over 14 years of experience and a passion for supporting early learners. Her energy and enthusiasm make sessions engaging and empowering for students at all stages. At home, she enjoys time with her family (and pets—Yogi, Katniss, and Tiger Lily Woods), cooking, swimming, and fishing.