Alya is a dedicated and compassionate elementary school teacher with over four years of teaching experience. She has her master’s degree in Childhood Education and is licensed to teach students in grades 1-6. She has experience teaching students in a variety of settings, including public, charter, and accelerated curriculum schools.
Alya has extensive experience implementing targeted instructional approaches that meet various students’ academic learning styles and needs, including students with IEPs.

While in graduate school, Alya tutored elementary and middle school students in Reading, Writing, and Math. She also created supplemental curriculum material that aligned with state standards in order to provide differentiated instruction for these students.

In her free time, Alya enjoys practicing yoga, going for walks on the beach, and hiking. Alya believes that in order to best meet the learning styles and academic needs of each student, frequent and open communication with parents/guardians, and differentiated instruction is imperative. She looks forward to the opportunity to work with you!

Anthony is a passionate STEM tutor dedicated to empowering students from all walks of life. His mission is to provide exceptional educational support to students of diverse backgrounds, ages, and nationalities. He takes pride in engaging deeply with his students’ academic journeys, collaborating with teachers, parents, schools, and local communities to ensure each student has access to the resources they need to excel.

As a seasoned and knowledgeable tutor, Anthony specializes in helping students reach their highest potential in a variety of subjects. His expertise spans Mathematics, including Pre-Algebra, AP Algebra I, AP Algebra II, AP Geometry, Pre-Calculus, Trigonometry, Calculus, and Linear Algebra. He also excels in teaching Honors and AP courses in Biology, Physics, and Chemistry. For those preparing for exams, he offers comprehensive test prep for HSPT, ISEE, ACT, PSAT, SAT, GMAT, and more. Additionally, he tutors Middle and High School English, History, Spanish (he is an intermediate Spanish speaker), Reading, Economics, and Literature.

Anthony brings a unique blend of strengths, teaching skills, and dedicated mentoring to his tutoring sessions. His approach involves meticulously crafted lesson plans and extensive preparation to tailor instruction to each student’s needs. He is committed to observing, monitoring, and challenging his students with encouragement, optimism, and mentorship. Using a variety of research-based instructional strategies, he aims to inspire confidence and academic excellence.

He is excited about the opportunity to work with new students and help them achieve their academic goals. Anthony looks forward to embarking on educational journeys together and unlocking each student’s full potential.

Ashley is an engaging and dedicated elementary educator with six years of experience teaching in San Diego schools. She has a Master’s Degree from San Diego State University in Curriculum and Instruction, and has enjoyed working with children and families in a number of capacities in and out of the classroom for the past 15 years. She has been a classroom teacher for Kindergarten through 2nd grade, run an independent childcare business, and worked as a homeschool advisor and guest teacher. Ashley knows how a strong foundation in early literacy can pave the way for future academic success. She understands that taking the time to get to know the whole child is essential to providing engaging and strategic interventions to help them thrive, whether in a classroom or homeschool setting. As a tutor, Ashley’s goal is to help your child build both academic competence and self-confidence.

In addition to her passion for teaching, Ashley is an avid adventurer, and an expert snack-packer. She is kept on her toes by her four rambunctious children ages 8 to 13 who love rock scrambling, ocean sports, and backyard engineering. Most weekends you will find her camping, beaching, or tromping around in nature with her family.

Bailey has been teaching elementary education for four years, with experience in both first and fifth grade. She earned her Associate of Arts in Teaching in 2018, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a focus on Special Education in 2020, and a Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction in May 2024.

Bailey’s teaching philosophy revolves around creating an inclusive and engaging learning environment where students feel safe and supported. She believes in tailoring her instruction to meet each student’s unique learning style, ensuring that every child can thrive academically and personally. In addition to her expertise in reading and math, she has a deep passion for helping students develop research skills, think critically, and engage creatively with subjects.

Bailey also values strong collaboration with parents to help students achieve their goals and build the skills they need for lifelong learning. Outside of teaching and tutoring, she enjoys competitive swimming, loves sports, and appreciates cozy movie nights in with her cats, George and Toby.

Isabella, or Bella, is a 5th grade teacher at St. Pius x School. She is currently completing her Masters in English Language Learning and her Credential in Elementary Education. She is a San Diego Mesa College and SDSU grad and will soon be a National University grad.

Bella has a passion for being in the classroom and particularly loves teaching math. She believes that math instills confidence, resilience, and a passion for problem solving. She is dedicated, open-minded, patient, and creative. With all of her experience, she has gained many teaching strategies that she keeps in her toolbox. She is great at adapting her teaching style at any moment and can recognize when modifications need to be made.

In her free time, Bella enjoys walks with her dog Nala, watching movies, and going to Disneyland.

Beverly graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology from Harvey Mudd College and a Master’s of Education from Boston University. She is a Certified Teacher who has worked with elementary and middle school students in Taiwan, Japan, and the United States. Beverly’s diverse teaching experience has shown her that building relationships with students is the most important step in meeting their educational needs. She believes every student is a “math person” and prioritizes developing number sense and critical thinking during her sessions. Beverly is excited to help students find learning strategies that work for them and encourage their curiosity about math.

In her spare time, Beverly enjoys hiking through autumn landscapes, solving jigsaw puzzles, and pondering why students have contentious arguments over whether a hotdog is a sandwich. (She’s inclined to say, “Yes,” per the Merriam-Webster definition.)

Brandon (BBA, M ED) is a passionate teacher and motivational speaker whose purpose is to use enthu­siasm and positivity to inspire others to become the best possible version of themselves and make the world a better place. Brandon is a world traveler to 80 Countries and 40 states, an unofficial World Record Holder for Fastest Marathon on Crutches at the NYC Marathon, and has previously worked for IBM, NASA, Ministry of Tourism of Bali, and research for the US Government regarding sustainable fundraising for NGO’s.

Due to life-threatening allergies to widespread foods and negativity, he came to understand the power of holistic health, community, and positive psychology. Brandon lives to share his achievable optimism with the world through his classroom With a story crafted within limitations both physically and emotionally, Brandon has taken what life has given him and has become the best possible version of himself seeking new challenges every day and creating epic experiences and memories with those he has met on his journey.

In his free time, Brandon loves traveling around the world, playing golf, working on business ideas to positively change the world, playing sports, raising money for charities, and hanging out with buddies!

Brittany Laws is a dedicated mathematics educator with over 14 years of teaching experience across diverse classroom settings, including Calvary Christian Academy and The Rock Academy in San Diego. Known for her adaptable and approachable teaching style, Brittany excels at helping students unlock their full potential in math. Currently, she specializes in Algebra 1, Algebra 2, and Pre-Algebra, guiding students in mastering complex concepts through a relationship-centered approach. With extensive experience in higher-level math tutoring—spanning Pre-Calculus, Calculus 1-3, Non-Euclidean Geometry, and Trigonometry—she brings a unique ability to make challenging content accessible.

Brittany’s teaching philosophy is simple but powerful: “It’s all about relationship.” She believes in fostering meaningful connections to inspire student growth, regardless of their background or prior challenges with math. She also incorporates various assessment methods to support ongoing growth, drawing on her skills in curriculum development, classroom management, and individualized learning support.

Holding a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Coppin State University, Brittany is a certified teacher and skilled test prep instructor, known for her successful strategies to build confidence and excellence in her students. For those looking

Cella has been an educator for over a decade, with experience spanning Kindergarten–5th Grade and Special Education in both Mild/Moderate and Moderate/Severe settings. Her passion lies in literacy and supporting diverse learners, especially those with language-based learning differences.

In 2022, she was honored to be named Reading Teacher of the Year, a milestone that reflects her commitment to effective, evidence-based reading instruction. She holds a Dyslexia Interventionist Certificate from the University of Florida and is currently pursuing advanced training in Educational Therapy to deepen her ability to support students with complex learning needs.

For the past three years, she has served as a professional learning facilitator, leading Science of Reading-aligned professional development sessions for schools across the country. She is passionate about helping educators bring research into practice through practical, engaging, and impactful training.

At the heart of her work is a belief in literacy equity and a commitment to equipping all students with the tools they need to thrive.

Daniel is a well-rounded Educator with over ten years of classroom experience. He specializes in creating curriculum that is personalized for and relevant to each of his students. He is capable of creating structured support for a variety of subjects including ESL, Math, Science, and Computer Science. You’ll also find him an empathetic, patient, and passionate tutor. Set your goals, and Daniel will help you reach them.

Dr. Salma Siddiqui, a passionate and dynamic Chemistry educator with a Ph.D. in Chemistry, brings over seventeen years of teaching and research experience at the college and university level. Known for turning even the most challenging scientific concepts into engaging, relatable lessons, she offers not only deep subject knowledge but also warmth, clarity, and enthusiasm in every session. With a strong commitment to student success, Dr. Salma is especially skilled at making science approachable and enjoyable for all types of learners.

Over the past six years, she has taught a wide range of Chemistry courses at institutions such as the City University of New York and Touro University, New York. Her research expertise in Chemistry adds depth and real-world perspective to her teaching. What truly sets her apart, however, is her ability to understand her students’ strengths and challenges, and to adapt her teaching style to meet their individual needs.

Now based in San Marcos, California and serving as a Chemistry faculty member at Grossmont College in El Cajon, Dr. Salma is excited to bring her expertise to middle and high school students as a Chemistry tutor—especially those seeking additional support outside the classroom. Whether it’s decoding the periodic table, understanding chemical reactions, or prepping for exams, she helps students build a strong foundation while making science genuinely fun. Students and parents alike value her calm, supportive approach and her knack for making Chemistry feel less intimidating and more like a journey of discovery.

In her free time, you’ll likely find her exploring new places, getting lost in a good book, or listening to her favorite music. With Dr. Salma, science isn’t just about formulas and facts—it’s about curiosity, creativity, and unlocking the wonder behind the world around us.

Eduardo is a native Spanish speaker. He has an undergraduate degree and Master’s degree in Spanish. He earned both degrees at San Diego State University. During his time at the Master’s program he taught Beginning, Intermediate, and Advanced Spanish.

After graduating from college, he started teaching K-12 as a substitute teacher. He has experience teaching every educational level. From Kindergarten all the way to College.

Eduardo is very excited to start this new journey as a tutor. His goal and number one priority is to see his students succeed and having fun by learning a new language.

In his free time he likes to spend his time at the beach, hiking, jogging, going to the movies, and attending sports events.

Elizabeth has been an educator for over 20 years, working across public, private, and preschool settings. She holds a California Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and is passionate about using a multi-sensory approach to help children learn and thrive. She believes in making learning fun and engaging by incorporating hands-on activities, creativity, and movement to keep students excited and motivated.

A few years ago, Elizabeth stepped away from the classroom to focus on raising her son. However, her passion for teaching never faded. She has continued working with students through tutoring and leading toddler sensory classes, where she fosters early learning through play and exploration.

Outside of teaching, Elizabeth enjoys spending time with her husband, 7-year-old son, and their playful puppy. In her free time, she loves visiting the beach, going on long walks with her dog, and playing sports with her son.

Emmanuel has been teaching since 2007 in a diverse range of places, from Los Angeles to Japan, Miami, and San Diego. He has taught students from 2nd to 12th grade, and has a special enthusiasm for phonics at the early grade levels and US history at the upper grades, although he is similarly enthusiastic for mathematics from lower elementary all the way through high school . He also has a keen interest in languages, and is bilingual in French and English, as well as having studied Spanish, Hebrew, and Japanese. Emmanuel believes that every subject is inherently fascinating and that every student is capable of excelling, even in a subject that they never imagined themselves to be experts in. He loves helping students to embrace struggle and feel the satisfaction that comes with pushing themselves to more than they thought possible.

Erika recently retired after 33 years in elementary education, during which time she held various roles. For 17 years, Erika was a second-grade bilingual teacher and taught primarily in Spanish with a special focus on developing English literacy. She then went on to be a Language Arts Specialist, overseeing all targeted interventions and closely monitoring progress in order to provide tailored support to the students who need it most. After three years, Erika returned to the classroom as a fourth grade teacher and held the position for eleven years. Prior to retiring, she spent the final year of her teaching career in an administrator position (Multi-tiered Systems of Support Coordinator). In addition to providing support to principals and teachers at two different schools, Erika oversaw the collection, analysis, and synthesis of academic, behavioral, and social-emotional data for the purpose of designing and coordinating targeted interventions for individual students.

Erika truly enjoyed her teaching career and took great pleasure in watching students grow and gain confidence in their learning. She believes it’s crucial that a student feel at ease and that they view reading as an enjoyable experience, not a chore. She recognizes that at the early stages, reading needs to be interactive to build confidence and comprehension. She attempts to make learning fun and look for ways to connect with the student’s interests. Since retiring, Erika has missed the kids and looks forward to having the opportunity to work with them again. Erika would love to have the opportunity to work with your family and support your child’s success in school.

Estefania is currently a Ph.D. student at UC San Diego, majoring in Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics. She completed both a B.S. in Chemistry/Biochemistry and a Thesis M.S. in Chemistry at UCSD. Her career thus far has focused on investigating chromosomal aberrations and their correlation to cancer. In addition to her research, she has served as a teaching assistant across multiple courses within the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department at UCSD over the past four years.

These experiences have given Estefania a deep understanding of the skill sets necessary for success in higher education. As a current student, she is familiar with how to acquire these skills. She has personally encountered and overcome challenges in developing effective study techniques that enhance learning. This background has enabled her to help many other students create systems that work for them. Estefania is a strong believer in a “growth mindset” for learning, recognizing that anyone can learn anything with time and effort. She understands that this type of support and confidence is essential to a student’s success, and she strives to implement these values in her teaching sessions.

Farin has over 10 years of experience teaching in the classroom, grades K-12. She earned her Bachelor of Arts from the University of San Diego, her Multiple Subject Credential and Masters of Education from National University, and her Special Education Credential from Cal State San Marcos.

She takes a passionate pride in nurturing and guiding students so they will develop a love for learning that enhances their abilities and thus become contributing citizens in their community. She has a patient, yet firm and consistent demeanor, which has allowed her to be successful in reaching students with varying needs and learning abilities.

She is well versed in the IEP process, assessing students, and able to support parents and students with special education needs.

Guille is a compassionate education specialist with 25 plus years of teaching experience. She is certified to teach K-adult students with her multi-subject and special-education credentials.
Guille has experience working with students with dyslexia and our special needs’ population, particularly with the autism community.
During her spare time, she volunteers with Special Olympics and Camps for Sports 4 Exceptional Athletes.

Ishita is a passionate, licensed educator with over seven years of experience teaching students of all ages. Holding a Master’s in Elementary Education from DePaul University and a Bachelor’s in Theatre from Loyola University Chicago, she brings warmth, creativity, and engagement to every learning experience.
With a deep belief that learning should be joyful, meaningful, and student-driven, Ishita tailors instruction to each child’s unique strengths and interests. She specializes in play-based learning, social-emotional development, and meditation techniques, creating a nurturing environment where students feel safe, confident, and excited to explore. To Ishita, learning isn’t confined to a classroom—it happens everywhere, in every moment, and she strives to help students recognize and embrace that with their own learning.
Through years of experience in homeschooling, learning pods, and one-on-one tutoring, Ishita has developed a whole-child approach that blends real-world applications with hands-on exploration. Whether leading field trips, designing personalized curriculums, or fostering critical thinking, she is dedicated to cultivating curiosity and resilience in every student. She deeply believes in the power of each child’s unique creativity and “genius.” She also encourages a growth mindset, reminding students that while learning can sometimes be challenging, they are capable of achieving great things.
At the heart of Ishita’s teaching is a genuine love for helping children discover their own potential and build confidence in their abilities. She is dedicated to creating a learning experience where students feel seen, heard, and valued. Above all, she hopes to inspire a lifelong love of learning in every student she works with.

With more than 20 years of experience as a teacher and tutor, Ivan has a rich background in education, spanning various countries and educational levels. As an engineer, he brings a unique approach to helping students succeed and boosting their self-confidence, particularly in quantitative subjects. Ivan is known for his patience and his ability to understand each student’s unique perspective. He emphasizes the importance of mastering the basics to foster deep understanding, avoiding mere memorization and promoting genuine learning.

Janet is an experienced math educator who brings over 10 years of classroom experience to her work with students. She believes every child can succeed in math when given the right tools, encouragement, and support. Janet specializes in making math feel engaging and accessible, often using hands-on and project-based approaches to spark curiosity and build confidence. She helped lead her school’s shift to the Illustrative Mathematics curriculum, a program designed to help students truly understand math—not just memorize steps.

Jessica is currently pursuing a master’s degree in education for Preliminary Single Subject Teaching Credential with an emphasis on Inspired Teaching and Learning. Her goal is to teach Biology/Science to secondary level students (grades 7-12) once she receives her teaching credential.

Jessica’s teaching/tutoring experiences began while she was in school herself. She always helped her classmates when they were having difficulty understanding new concepts and worked as a student aid and student tutor in high school. While she served in the US Navy, she was an instructor for about three years and learned that each student is and learns differently and successfully tailored her lessons and instruction methods to meet the needs of every student.

Jessica loves learning about science and earned a BS in biology which made her even more curious and in awe of the world around her. She likes traveling, going for walks, observing the everyday phenomena she encounters, watching movies and shows, listening to a variety of music, teaching, and learning. As a future biology or science teacher she hopes to inspire the next generation of scientists to stay curious and do great things.

Jessica has been working in education for nearly 15 years in various settings. She received her B.A. in Theatre Education from Emerson College and her M.Ed. in Special Education (mild/moderate disabilities) from Lesley University. Jessica has experience teaching charter and private schools, tutoring, and supporting homeschool families. Throughout her years in education, she has supported upper elementary, middle, and high school students in all core content areas. In the past few years, Jessica has specialized in supporting reading and language development in middle school students and has received countless hours of training in Orton-Gillingham.
As a part of her educational philosophy, Jessica believes that all students can grow and succeed with the right support and encouragement. Jessica is a passionate life-long learner and works to share that passion for learning with all her students.
In her free time, Jessica enjoys being a mother, reading, math, and taking walks around San Diego. Jessica also enjoys challenging the students with puzzles, riddles, and brain teasers regularly to help encourage out-of-the-box thinking. She also welcomes being challenged by her students in kind.

Jessica has been teaching high school for over 20 years. During that time, she focused on English/English as a Second Language, Spanish, and college preparedness. She is the coordinator of AVID at her high school and part of a college network that aims to get students into colleges that fit and tailor their needs. She builds great rapport with students and is a great motivator. Her energy and enthusiasm mesh well with junior and high school students. She is patient with high expectations, firm but warm. Her true gift is helping students get into college. Specializing not only with the UC/CSU system, she is also very knowledgeable with private school applications and scholarships. Jessica Vargas is a great choice during college application season, or anytime for tutor support. Bilingual and IEP support is available as well.

Joshua is a Math-Computer Science major at University of California San Diego with a strong passion for helping students succeed. He has several years of experience mentoring and tutoring from elementary to college level. He is also currently a mentor for first year students at UCSD. Joshua specializes in Mathematics and STEM subjects, and is naturally skilled in breaking down questions to an understandable concept. He comes with an approach of patience and encouragement, and understands that every student is different, adapting when needed. His goal is to not only focus on the grade but to build confidence and understanding of the subject. Joshua spends his free time with Church activities and trading card games.

Judy is a certified Education Specialist with over a decade of experience, passionate about helping students reach their fullest potential—especially those who need a little extra support to shine. She specializes in working with students with special needs, English language learners, and students who are struggling academically. Judy believes that with the right strategies, encouragement, and a personalized approach, every student can succeed.

Throughout her career, she has built strong relationships with students and families by creating nurturing, structured environments where confidence grows and skills thrive. She tailors her instruction to meet each learner’s unique needs, using research-based interventions and a positive, strengths-based philosophy.

With a background in both general and special education settings, and a deep commitment to patience, creativity, and clear communication, Judy is excited to partner with families and schools to make learning a successful and joyful journey. Outside of education, she nurtures her own love of learning and creativity through music, and she actively sings in a choir.

Karina is a retired teacher and administrator with over 38 years of experience teaching and leading communities of learners. She has a love for education and connecting with her students and families.

Karina believes that the key to successful learning is making it fun, engaging and appropriate for each child’s instructional needs. Her specialty is differentiating and individualizing according to each child’s interests, strengths and academic goals. She is also a lifelong learner and enjoys traveling, reading, surfing, birding and hiking. Karina is thrilled to be a Prep Academy Tutor, which allows her to help children develop confidence in their abilities and achieve their full potential.

Katrina has 5 years of experience teaching and tutoring in STEM. She has taught introductory biology college courses and tutored grades 2-12 in mathematics. Katrina obtained her PhD in Molecular Biosciences from Washington State University. She also has her B.S. in Molecular and Cellular Biology with a minor in Chemistry from Sonoma State University of California.

Katrina has a passion for sharing her knowledge of science with others. She loves creating scientific content including visuals which help others better understand various scientific topics. Katrina understands everyone learns differently and personalizing the learning experience to each student is important to bring out their potential. She has experience teaching both groups and individuals in person and virtually.

Kelsea Shea is a recent graduate from San Diego State University with both her Bachelor’s in Elementary Education and Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. She is currently in the Master’s program at SDSU and a 2nd grade long term substitute in Poway while she completes school. She completed her student teaching in 4th grade and has subbed in all grades! Kelsea is originally from Los Angeles County but currently lives in Pacific Beach with her 4 best friends (and two cats)! She used to be both a camp counselor and programs assistant for Mission Bay Aquatic Center where she would teach water sports and marine science to 6-14 year olds.

As an educator, she believes that she has the responsibility to support and advocate for the young minds of our future generations. She also believes that it is her job to create a motivating, safe, and positive environment in which students can grow as both learners and peers. She aims to be a role model for her students that encourages a growth mindset by growing together. Throughout her student teaching and future classroom, Kelsea’s instruction is equity-driven and unique to the student where they can learn in many engaging and educational ways. Whether this be through access to visual, kinesthetic, collaborative, or auditory supports, the learning of the student is built around them and their characteristics. Kelsea grounds her teaching on the notion that every student is a valuable contribution to their classroom and the world around them, therefore the instruction and environment in which they learn in, must be rich in value as well.

Kendall is an experienced and committed educator. She has a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Special Education from the University of Delaware. Kendall has worked closely to support students with diverse learning needs at the elementary level. She currently works as a special education teacher at a K-5 Charter School. Kendall has a passion for helping students reach their full potential, especially in the area of reading development. She believes in using research based, multi-sensory intervention programs that target students’ unique needs. She looks forward to the opportunity to work with your family and make a positive impact on your child’s learning journey.

Kimberley is an Ed Specialist with over 10 years of experience in teaching Special Education. Diagnosed with Dyslexia and ADHD during her childhood, she is deeply passionate about helping students facing similar challenges to achieve success in school. Trained in the Linda Mood Bell reading program, Kimberley has found it to be highly effective for struggling readers. She takes great joy in witnessing students grow more confident and successful in their academic pursuits. Outside of her professional life, Kimberley enjoys spending time outdoors, engaging in activities such as running, surfing, and hiking with friends in San Diego.

Kimberly taught English and ESL for 14 years at South Side High School. Before that, she taught ESL and English at Northwood Middle School for 10 years. Both schools are located in Fort Wayne Community Schools in Fort Wayne, Indiana. She has a BA in English with a minor in French from Indiana University. She also has an MA in Education from Indiana Wesleyan. In addition, she holds a Professionalized Teaching license in the state of Indiana.
Kimberly has taught a diverse population of students including students from over 20 different countries. She has taught students with IEP’s as well as students with high ability. Kimberly’s passion is to see academic growth in students. She enjoys helping students achieve benchmarks in their learning to achieve their goals. She values getting to know the student as well as communicating with parents on a regular basis. She is very excited to be part of Prep Academy Tutors and she looks forward to meeting you!

“Teaching is only demonstrating that it is possible. Learning is making it possible for yourself.”
– Paulo Coelho

Kristina has taught Science and AP Psychology at Brunswick School in CT for ten years. She is excited to start a new chapter at Bishop’s School as a Biology Teacher! She has a Bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience from Claremont McKenna College, a Master’s of Art in Teaching from Manhattanville College, and a Master’s of Science in Biology from NYU.

Biology and Chemistry can be some of the most challenging classes in high school, and she enjoys breaking the material down into smaller, digestible parts. Incorporating the latest research in Cognitive Science, she likes to focus on the context, or big picture, and then tackles the nuances of the material. She utilizes videos, diagrams, drawings, and lots of practice problems to instruct all types of learners.

In her free time, she loves taking her 75lb golden retriever, Zeus, for walks!

Leila holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and has over 10 years experience teaching in public elementary and middle school settings as well as homeschool classrooms. Currently, Leila uses her passion and expertise for engaging emerging and struggling readers with one on one explicit instruction. Adhering to the philosophy of The Science of Reading, which addresses all components of language (spelling, phonics, writing, and oral communication along with reading) her passion is connecting with the individual student and developing an engaging and personalized curriculum that fosters their desire to learn. Leila utilizes an approach that is centered around games and personal connection. She believes educational success should also include parental involvement and finds creative ways to incorporate learning into family life and uses positive communication to work as a team within the family unit. By closely monitoring progress and careful attention to observable and measurable data, Leila teaches in a method that is specific to each individual’s needs and interests.

Lindsay has been assisting students with math since she was a student herself. She began tutoring in college as a way to make money; however, it evolved into more of a hobby than a job. She fell in love with helping students understand the complexities of mathematics and witnessing that lightbulb turn on inside their heads. Lindsay earned her BS in Mathematics from Virginia Tech in 2016. However, she wanted to continue learning how best to teach math. She worked her way to complete her MA in Education by 2022. Lindsay has been working with students of all ages for over a decade, both in person and virtually, while maintaining a full-time job as a Cost Analyst for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). She is excited to join the Prep Academy Tutors team and help more students in need.

Mary has been teaching for the past 15 years, including working 9 years as a special education teacher for grades TK-12, 4 years as a general education high school English teacher, and 2 years as a Creative Writing adjunct professor at the University of California Riverside Extension. She has also worked as a writing tutor for the University of California, Santa Cruz for two years, and as an in-home tutor for students grade K-8 for 3 years (tutoring reading, writing, and math), and as a college admissions essay tutor. She currently works as a special education teacher for a local charter school, teaching reading, writing, and math, as well as supporting students in Social Studies and Science, for students grades TK-8 both virtually and in person at a local learning center.

Mary has a BA in Literature from UC Santa Cruz, where she received College Honors and Honors in the Major. She has also received an MA in English and MFA in Creative Writing from San Francisco State University, and California credentials in Single Subject English and Mild/Moderate Special Education from Brandman University, and is certified to teach Wilson Reading. She has experience teaching and tutoring both online and in person, and worked as a freelance writer, and an editor of books and magazines before she became a teacher and tutor.

Mary has a great love of learning, which she brings to her students when teaching reading and writing. As an avid reader, and experienced writer of fiction, poetry, plays, and articles, she imparts her enthusiasm of reading and writing on her students. She especially loves to help her students improve their writing, and uses tools such as the Wilson Reading program to help struggling readers and spellers learn how to read and spell. As a teacher of students with a variety of ability levels, including students with disabilities, gifted and Honors students, and twice exceptional students, she knows how to tailor instruction to meet each student’s individual needs.

Matthew’s journey into education was an unexpected yet deeply rewarding path. After earning a BA in Television, Film, and New Media, he initially pursued a career in the film industry. However, in 2013, while teaching a film course at the Digital Media Academy summer tech camp, he discovered a passion for guiding young scholars toward academic, creative, and professional success. This experience inspired him to pursue a single-subject teaching credential, leading him to a fulfilling career in education.

Since 2018, Matthew has been an educator at The Preuss School, UC San Diego, where he has honed his teaching philosophy and instructional methods. Initially stepping in to fill a vacancy in the Drama department, he transformed the curriculum into a film-based program that integrates Art, English, and History. His courses reinforce grade-level ELA comprehension and writing skills through in-depth units on story structure, plot development, character analysis, and thematic content. Students apply these skills to writing their own screenplays, while Film I students explore film theory and cinema history. In his advanced Film II/Honors Film course, students engage in collaborative, hands-on projects that guide them through all stages of video production, from pre-production to post-production.

Matthew’s adaptability and innovation were especially evident during the pandemic when The Preuss School transitioned to remote learning for two years. While many educators faced challenges, he embraced the format, finding new ways to engage students and enhance learning through strategic virtual instruction. He firmly believes that, when thoughtfully designed, virtual learning can be just as impactful—if not more—than in-person instruction.

His passion lies in inviting students into the vibrant world of poetry, literature, and history and watching them engage with enthusiasm. Through teaching, he hopes to foster a deep sense of global awareness, empathy, and compassion in his students, empowering them to express themselves through both written and visual storytelling.

Matthew is eager to begin the tutoring process for students in need of support in English, reading, writing, history, social studies, college essay writing, and test prep. Additionally, with his background in Film, he is thrilled to assist students seeking help with video production, editing, or acting. His expertise also extends to Public Speaking and Debate courses, providing students with valuable skills to enhance their speaking abilities.

Matthew is excited to bring his expertise and passion for education to Prep Academy Tutors, where he continues to support students in their academic journeys.

Melissa is a passionate educator and mentor with over five years of teaching experience, dedicated to empowering the next generation in STEM. She earned her Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Miami, where she taught university students cell biology, neuroscience, and research techniques through both lectures and hands-on lab instruction. She also mentored high school students on independent scientific projects, fostering curiosity and critical thinking at an early stage.

Prior to UM, Melissa completed her Master’s at Drexel University, where she taught materials science and led engaging engineering activities for middle school students from diverse backgrounds. She earned her BS in Biomedical Engineering from University of Florida.

Melissa has worked with students ranging from middle school to college and understands that learning is never one-size-fits-all. She meets each student where they are, helping to build confidence and deepen understanding at a pace that supports their individual growth. She thrives on problem-solving and loves the creativity students bring when learning to apply new math and science concepts. Knowing that complex assignments and tests can be challenging, she is committed to making learning approachable by breaking down tough topics into real-world, relatable examples.

Outside of research and teaching, Melissa enjoys hiking, kayaking, live concerts, and belting karaoke with loved ones. She’s excited to join Prep Academy Tutors and looks forward to making a meaningful impact on each student’s academic journey!

Sofia is a doctoral student in the cell and molecular biology program at SDSU and UCSD. Her project explores the biological mechanisms of ovarian cancer metastasis and drug resistance.
Ms. Howe’s journey in science began at North Dakota State University where she was researching paternal investment in bees under stressful conditions, like cold weather. During her senior year, she shifted her research focus to biomedical sciences where she researched the effects of asthma in smooth muscle cells. While researching these biological topics, she was a goalkeeper for the Division 1 soccer program for 4 years.
Ms. Howe tutors biology, chemistry and math for Prep Academy Tutors of San Diego. Beyond her professional pursuits, Ms. Howe enjoys hot yoga, playing with her two yorkies, and restoring vintage Coach bags.

Stephen is a professional historian with over five years of experience as a college instructor. Outside the classroom, Stephen’s historical research took him to libraries and archives in Scotland, England, and India. He has a PhD in History from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

Stephen’s zeal for all things history has shaped his approach to teaching, which brings past events and characters to life through impassioned storytelling, rather than giving tedious lists of names and dates. Stephen believes that if he can convince his students that history and the humanities are as cool as he thinks they are, a spark will arise that drives them to excellence in reading comprehension, essay writing and beyond.

Apart from the subject matter, Stephen is a personable instructor who strives to get to know his students as best he can. In doing so, Stephen aims to create a safe space which allows for open dialogue and, consequently, top-level schoolwork.

Sun graduated from UC San Diego with an MBA and holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry. She has taught a range of subjects at UC San Diego, from General Chemistry to Advanced Organic Chemistry, as well as Algebra, Calculus, and Trigonometry. Sun understands the individual struggles students face and is passionate about guiding them along their educational journey. In her free time, she enjoys playing pickleball.

Zeke is a credentialed social science and special education teacher with over eight years of classroom experience. He holds a BA from UCLA and an MA from UCSD. Zeke is a patient, personable, and adaptable teacher who loves creating the spark that fosters lifelong curiosity and exploration.

In his free time, Zeke enjoys traveling, playing guitar, hiking, cycling, reading, and watching sports. His favorite teams include the San Diego Padres, UCLA Bruins, and anything Team USA.