We help students close their academic gaps because we believe that all children are capable of academic success.

Our Mission

We believe every child deserves to succeed both in and out of the classroom, and we’re here to make that happen. By working closely with students and families, we provide the support and tools they need to thrive.

We also partner with schools and educators, offering professional development, curriculum, and resources to create a learning environment where every child can succeed.

We know that real success comes when families, students, and educators work together. We're committed to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to read and reach their full potential.

Group of six people around a white conference table in a modern office setting, with laptops, notebooks, and plants.

We are a team of educational therapists…

…with backgrounds in research, psychology, special education, and general education. We understand that no two students learn in exactly the same way and we’re here to work with your child to uncover the tools and strategies that best align with his or her unique strengths.

Meet our team -

Corey Pollard is the executive director and founder of Ascend SMARTER Intervention.

Hey there, I’m Corey!
Executive Director at Ascend SMARTER Intervention

With a background in research and clinical psychology, I bring an analytical, data-driven approach to everything we do at Ascend—from learning evaluations and direct student support to curriculum development and educator training.

Our team includes a group of highly skilled educational therapists, with backgrounds in special education, general education, and research, ensuring a multidisciplinary approach that truly makes a difference. Because when it comes to the success of students, families, and educators, “fine” is never good enough.

MIKAYLA STOREY

Chief Experience Officer & Educational Therapist

With a background in special education, Mikayla knows exactly what it takes to meet both students and educators where they are. Mikayla supports outreach, educator development, and provides direct student support.

MATTHEW POLLARD

Chief Operating & Financial Officer

With a background in research and project management, Matt makes sure that all the projects at Ascend remain on track. He supports school contracts, content development, and data analysis to support our research program.

LAURA BOAK

Content Manager & Educational Therapist

With a background in both general education and intervention, Laura manages curriculum development and content creation in addition to providing direct student intervention.

LINDSEY BUCK

Curriculum Developer & Educational Therapist

With a background in general education and intervention, Lindsey supports curriculum development and provides educator training in addition to providing direct student intervention.

What people are saying…

Not only does she love reading again, she has the desire back to read on her own.

“The program at Ascend has been so amazing for my daughter who is now in 5th grade. Not only does she love reading again, she has the desire back to read on her own. The skills she has gained has helped with her self-efficacy and self-esteem. The staff at Ascend are not only great at their jobs but they are also empathetic and caring. I'm super grateful to have this resource for my daughter who has dyslexia.”
- Mindy R. (Parent)
It's kinda life changing.

“I'm so excited to be using this program with students. It's kinda life changing.”
- Cara Z. (Educator)
It has lit a fire in me again!

“I can't say enough about this program. It has lit a fire in me again!’”
- Laura S. (Educator)
This approach is exactly what we needed.

“WOW! This is fantastic! Thank you so much this approach is exactly what we needed ☺️ You never disappoint! You excel at setting others up for success. :) Thank you!”
- Emily K. (Educator)
I feel so inspired and less alone!

“You guys make my job so much easier and less stressful! Thank you for everything yo do! I feel so inspired and less alone! I am so grateful for this community!”
- Kelli W. (Educator)
Ascend has been one of the best things to happen to our son...

“Ascend has been one of the best things to happen for our son since he was diagnosed with dyslexia. They have helped improve his reading, writing, and confidence.”
- Joseph O. (Parent)