Tonya Ricketts, M.A.

Tonya holds a bachelor's degree in special education and a master's degree in Developmental Psychology, with more than 20 years of experience as an educator. As a Special Education Teacher, she specialized in literacy and created and led a support program for students who had experienced trauma. Throughout her career, she has worked with children and adults with learning differences, English language learners, refugees from around the world, and individuals facing mental health challenges. She is passionate about helping students discover how they learn best and uses a strengths-based approach to build confidence, foster resilience, and help each learner recognize their potential. Her favorite part of working at LFA is watching students grow and mature while collaborating with a team that embraces a growth mindset. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and her dog, Shya, as well as kayaking, surfing, swimming in the ocean, and traveling.