Meet Odyssey's First Director of Language and Literacy Programming
Gaby Edwards Canapp, M.S., CCC-SLP
We are thrilled to announce that Gaby Edwards Canapp, M.S., CCC-SLP, has been named Odyssey’s first Director of Language and Literacy Programming. In this new role, Gaby will support Odyssey's leadership to ensure Odyssey remains at the forefront of evidence-based language and literacy instruction.
Our daily, individualized Reading and Writing Tutoring Program is at the heart of an Odyssey education, helping students with dyslexia and language learning differences build confidence, master foundational skills, and thrive as learners. In collaboration with Odyssey's administration, Gaby will support our reading and writing tutors through expert guidance and professional development, ensuring our approach remains innovative and effective.
"For me, it always comes back to the students. Helping students find the best tool to add to their toolbox is one of the most rewarding experiences." - Gaby Edwards Canapp
Gaby will also help forward professional development for all Odyssey faculty, mentor speech-language pathology clinical fellows, support new tutors, and offer free community language & literacy screenings—all while continuing to inspire students as a tutor herself. By staying engaged with current research and sharing knowledge within and beyond Odyssey, Gaby will help our program remain dynamic and serve our broader community of students, families, and educators.
Q&A with Odyssey’s First Director of Language and Literacy Programming
How will your experience as a speech-language pathologist and tutor shape your new role?
My background as a speech-language pathologist and tutor has equipped me with a strong understanding of how language, literacy, and executive function work together as students learn to read, write, and communicate. In this new position, I'll draw from these experiences every day, helping students build the skills they need not just for academic success, but for life. I’m committed to making sure Odyssey remains on the cutting edge, both for our students and as an institution.
How will this new role support the Odyssey community?
By working closely with colleagues and school leaders, I’m excited to weave evidence-based practice more deeply into everything we do—from language and literacy to executive function. I’m also excited to support ongoing professional development, bringing experts in to keep Odyssey on the leading edge for students with dyslexia and other language-based differences—and to mentor and empower new educators and clinical fellows.
What sparked your passion for language and literacy?
For me, it always comes back to the students. Helping students find the best tool to add to their toolbox is one of the most rewarding experiences. Happiness, relief, and curiosity fill the tutoring space, but more importantly, you are a small part of their journey to becoming their own thinker and doer. I want every student to leave with the confidence, self-awareness, and skills they need to unlock their potential. The research is always evolving, and I love making sure we have the very best tools in our toolbox.
What’s your favorite Odyssey tradition?
It’s hard to pick just one, but I especially love our buddy activities. There’s something truly special about watching older students mentor younger ones—they shine in these moments, showing real leadership and empathy. These relationships go beyond academics; they build bonds, confidence, and a sense of belonging that truly reflect the spirit of Odyssey.