Lezlie Porter, M.A.Ed.
Educator | Advocate | Founder & CEO, The Reading Factory
Lezlie Porter is a dedicated educator, mentor, and literacy advocate with more than 26 years of experience serving students in the Pasadena Unified School District. Throughout her career as a Special Education teacher and instructional aide, she has remained committed to helping young people achieve academic success, build confidence, and develop essential life skills.

As the CEO of The Reading Factory, Lezlie combines her passion for literacy and education to provide impactful reading support and tutoring services for students and families. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from the University of Phoenix, a Master of Arts in Education from Alder Graduate School of Education, and a California Career Technical Education credential in Education, Child Development, and Family Services. She has also completed advanced Orton-Gillingham literacy training accredited by the International Dyslexia Association.

In addition to her work in education, Lezlie is a certified youth etiquette instructor and founder of Essential Etiquette 4 You, a program focused on teaching confidence, character, social skills, and professional etiquette to young adults. Her years of leadership, mentorship, and community service have earned her multiple recognitions for her dedication to empowering youth through education and personal development.

Letter from our founder

“As a dedicated educator with more than 30 years of experience working with adolescents and teens, I have devoted my career to nurturing and guiding students, especially those with special needs, to help them reach their full potential. My commitment to their success has always been unwavering, and I continually strive to provide the best possible education and support.

My passion for education is deeply personal and rooted in my upbringing. This passion was instilled in me by my parents, who emphasized the importance of learning to read. As an educator, I have aimed to share this love of reading with my students, inspired by the environment in which I grew up. It was then I realized failure to teach students to read is a social injustice and I will dedicate my future to advocate for justice”

-Lezlie porter