Districts & Schools

Our Kids Can’t Wait

School Data is in.  Funding comes and goes, but the facts remain. We need systematic change and a roadmap on how to support the diverse children that fill our schools.  

Why Left Side Strong LLC?

Researcher. Educator. District Leader. Adjunct Professor

Using science and ongoing research, Left Side Strong LLC is committed to the evolving science of learning.

See below for our services.

Our Services:

Professional Development

Empowering educators through customized, evidence-based training sessions that translate research into practical classroom strategies. (see menu above)

  • Conduct a Professional Learning Needs Assessment

  • Tailored sessions aligned with the district initiatives to meet the needs of the student population and professional learning goals

  • Strategy brief to guide implementation

  • Ongoing support after session delivery (additional coaching option)

  • Curated menu of resources

Case Consultation

Providing strategic insight and support for complex cases.

  • Observational Sessions

  • Individualized Consultations (virtual or in-person)

  • Collaboration with staff and stakeholders

  • Strategy summary with actionable recommendations

  • Continued support post-consultation

  • Individualized menu of resources for student(s) and educator(s)

Language & Literacy Assessments

Comprehensive Evaluations in language and literacy.

  • Customized battery of assessments

  • Comprehensive analysis of findings

  • Debrief of assessment results with all stakeholders

  • Recommendations across content areas

MaryKate DeSantis’ recent & upcoming Events

March 2025

June 2025

Capin, P. & DeSantis, M. (2025, March). Helping Children Crack the Code: How Classroom Teachers Can Support Students with Dyslexia. Invited presentation to Massachusetts Reading Association. Newton, MA.


Podcast Guest, Episode (TBA)


August 2025

Big Sky Literacy Summit

Invited Presenter

Engaging families to (realistically!) boost reading outcomes.

October 2025

The Reading League