Board of Directors

NOBIDA offers multiple resources, educational events, and an optimistic support network for dyslexic individuals and all advocates seeking a better understanding of dyslexia. Comprised of educators, researchers, and invested community members, we pledge to work tirelessly until everyone can read.

We are a branch of the International Dyslexia Association with an active and passionate board and we serve the northern Ohio community. Whether you are dyslexic or know someone that is dyslexic, we are here to offer hope, support, and resources to help you on your journey.

Executive Committee 2025

Jennifer Scaffidi, M.Ed., CALT
President

Jennifer Scaffidi is a Certified Academic Language Therapist and a Multisensory Math Instructor. She is currently working in the Plain Local School District as well as assisting Marilyn Zecher in teaching her online Multisensory Math courses. She privately works with students in both reading and math. Jennifer also presents professional development workshops on Multisensory Reading and Math strategies.

Jennifer holds a Master’s degree in School Administration from Ashland University and a BS in Elementary Education from Bowling Green State University with a minor in Psychology. She is a member of the Academic Language Therapist Association.

Kerry Agins, Esq.
First Vice-President

Kerry Agins has devoted her legal practice, Agins and Gilman, LLC to the representation of individuals with disabilities. With a primary focus on special education, she has assisted students with a wide variety of diagnoses in ensuring that their needs are met in Ohio’s public schools. She has represented individuals in eligibility and IEP meetings, administrative reviews and resolution sessions, and in front of state and government agencies for IDEA and Section 504 complaints, due process hearings, state level reviews, and in federal court. As an adjunct professor, she co-taught disability law at Case Western Reserve University. Kerry has also represented parent groups in bringing successful complaints regarding systemic issues to the Ohio Department of Education.

Jessica Lauer
Second Vice-President

Jessica Lauer is a Literacy Specialist at Avondale Elementary. She has a B.S in Early Childhood Education, a K-12 Reading Endorsement and a M.Ed. from Walsh University. Jessica is trained in Orton-Gillingham, LETRS, is a LETRS facilitator, and a Wilson Dyslexia Practitioner. Combined with her love of early literacy, Ms. Lauer has a passion for leadership. She was part of the 2019 Stark County Leadership Cohort and is on the Board of Directors for the Northern Ohio International Dyslexia Association. Ms. Lauer also has the  honor of serving as a Teacher Leader Liaison for ODEW, most recently leading a state meeting for all of the teacher leaders in Ohio. 

Julie Hicks, M.Ed.
Secretary

Julie Hicks is a specialist for the Educational Service Center Lake Erie West (ESCLEW) and completes state-level committee work focused on Model Curriculum and ELA standards revision. She is an Orton-Gillingham Level I instructor, a LETRS Regional Facilitator, and owner of Literacy Consulting of Ohio, LLC working as a Jon Peterson Provider. In addition to her advocacy work with NOBIDA, she is a part of the National Advisory Panel for ETS Praxis Reading Specialist exam, advocating for phonemic awareness to be a part of the exam process. An avid teacher trainer, her other interests include grant and newsletter writing. 

Brian Adkins, MBA
Treasurer

Brian Adkins is a lifelong learner and advocate for diverse ways of thinking, bringing personal and professional passion to the NOBIDA Board. As a husband and father of two, he shares a unique bond with his son as they navigate life with dyslexia, fueling his commitment to supporting others and raising awareness. Brian earned his MBA and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems and Business Administration from Baldwin Wallace University. Go Jackets! Professionally, Brian is an experienced leader in professional services and technology integration, known for building high-performing teams and delivering innovative solutions. In his free time, he enjoys family adventures with his wife and kids, reading, walking their dog, and exploring new opportunities.