Lisa Willis Calvert
Lisa Calvert is a National Board Certified Teacher in Literacy and a dedicated Literacy Specialist for the Clark County School District. She also serves as a Literacy Fellow with Savvas Learning and is an active member of the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE). With a Master’s in Teaching and Learning in Technology and ongoing doctoral studies in Literacy Education at the University of Nevada, Reno, Lisa blends research-based practices with innovative technology to elevate literacy instruction.
Passionate about inspiring both students and educators, Lisa regularly presents professional development sessions on vocabulary, fluency, and the science of reading. In September 2025, she will present her paper, “For the Love of Reading,” highlighting strategies to foster lifelong reading engagement. She is known for creating lightbulb moments when students discover their own reading potential and confidence.
Beyond her professional work, Lisa is deeply committed to service. As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she volunteers in humanitarian efforts supporting homeless teens in Nevada, providing school supplies and clothing to help them succeed. In her personal time, she loves reading, playing games, and spending time with her family.
• National Board Certification - Literacy Reading-Language Arts-Early and Middle Childhood
• University of Nevada-Las Vegas - BS
• Western Governors University - MEd
• National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE).
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the everyday moments in teaching — those breakthroughs when a student suddenly realizes they can read and understands the power that comes with it. Those moments are my biggest accomplishments and the reason I stay inspired in this work. I’ve also been fortunate to have incredible mentors, especially the women I met during my time as a Savvas Literacy Fellow. Their passion for literacy and leadership encouraged me to pursue my doctorate and continue growing as an educator and advocate for students.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best piece of advice I’ve ever received is to always keep learning. Education — whether formal or through experience — doesn’t end in the classroom. As teachers, staying curious and open to new strategies not only makes us better educators, but it also models a love of learning for our students.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Find joy every day, and let the disappointments of the day go. In education, you and your students need a fresh start daily. No one, including you, is stuck in the mistakes of the day before. Teach yourself and your students to view mistakes as opportunities for learning.