📍 San Diego, CaliforniaCertified In-Home & Online Tutors Your Child Can Count On

Alissa has her master’s degree in Education with a concentration in Autism Spectrum Disorder from Saint Francis University. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in General Education PreK–5 and Special Education PreK–12, along with a minor in Psychology and an Autism Spectrum Disorder Endorsement.

Alissa brings 4.5 years of experience as an Educational Specialist, working primarily with 2nd- and 3rd-grade students. Her academic focus has included math, writing, and structured reading instruction. She also has experience supporting students with a variety of learning differences, including dyslexia, and is experienced in working with students with disabilities and IEPs.

When Alissa is not working, she enjoys being outdoors, gardening, and spending time with her two children. She looks forward to building strong relationships with her students and their families and is committed to helping each student grow in confidence and achieve academic success.

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!

Meet Amanda! Amanda is a highly skilled, multisensory, Orton-Gillingham tutor. She excels at creating effective, engaging online lessons. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education and a Master’s degree in Science/Teacher Leadership, and she is licensed as both a classroom teacher and a special educator. With over 17 years of experience, Amanda has provided targeted instruction for students with a wide range of learning differences.

Amanda has completed an impressively high level of Orton-Gillingham training directly from fellows of the Orton-Gillingham Academy. Her instruction builds skills in areas such as early elementary math, executive functioning, ESL, K-5 science and science inquiry, reading, vocabulary, writing, fluency, and reading comprehension. Her lessons are structured, systematic, routine-based, multisensory, and highly interactive, helping students build skills progressively and feel more confident. Amanda is sweet, intelligent, efficient, and exceptionally organized. She and I partner closely to ensure the very best support for each student.

Andrew holds an MFA in Creative Writing from The City College of New York (CCNY). He has experience teaching AP English courses, adjunct lecturing in First-Year Writing Composition to freshmen college students, and teaching advanced extracurricular grammar, writing, and vocabulary workshops to San Diego elementary and middle school students. Andrew is an editor at Fiction magazine, a literary publication headquartered in Harlem, New York.

Andrew is a retired mathematics teacher with 32 years of high school teaching experience specializing in personalized, student-centered instruction. He is a reliable professional skilled at identifying unique learning gaps and adapting teaching methods to match individual student paces. Andrew has a proven track record of boosting student confidence, improving test scores, and instilling a lifelong appreciation for math.

Andrew is a university professor with over 10 years of experience tutoring math and statistics. He holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in statistics and has taught at both a community college as well as a 4 year university for 4 years.
In his free time, Andrew loves to play D&D or Magic: the Gathering, read manga, practice Russian, and play with his cats.

Ann is a certified elementary and middle school teacher with more than 10 years of experience teaching in both the United States and Canada. While she has taught across subject areas, she specializes in developing reading and writing skills and integrating literacy across subjects. Ann holds a master’s degree in Learning and Technology from Western Governors University and a bachelor’s degree in English and Elementary Education from Western Washington University.

Anna has over 10 years of experience working with children in a variety of K–12 educational settings. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Spanish, with a minor in Child Psychology, from the University of Minnesota, and later completed her Master’s in Education with a specialization in Second Languages and Cultures.

For the past decade, Anna has taught K–12 ESL students from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds in Minnesota. Fluent in both English and Spanish, she enjoys building meaningful relationships with students and families while helping students grow in confidence and academic ability.

Because of her extensive work with English Language Learners, Anna is able to tutor a wide range of subjects, from elementary academics and study skills to writing support and college essay preparation. She believes every student deserves access to a quality education and works to create personalized learning strategies that meet each child’s unique needs and learning style.

Outside of tutoring, Anna enjoys spending time outdoors with her Australian Shepherd, camping, hiking, and trying new recipes in the kitchen.

Anna is a credentialed Special Education teacher and certified Dyslexia Specialist. She studied Special Education at Baylor University, where she gained hands-on experience teaching in a variety of classrooms and conducting research on dyslexia interventions. Her work focused on how students generalize reading skills across different contexts.

She is passionate about creating supportive and engaging learning environments that help students feel confident in their abilities and reach their goals. Anna focuses on building strong relationships with her students, going the extra mile to ensure their individual needs are met through evidence-based, structured literacy instruction.

She is both an effective teacher and a positive role model who inspires her students to believe in themselves and take pride in their progress. Outside of teaching, Anna enjoys going to the beach, taking walks, and spending time outdoors with her husband and their dog.

Dr. Asama L. received her PhD in Biological Sciences from UC San Diego (Go Tritons!) and Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Neuroscience from Northeastern University (Go Huskies!). She is an expert in microbiology, molecular biology, and bioinformatics, with biomedical research and high-impact publications in both academic and biotechnology settings. As a first-generation American and first in her family to attend a US high school, Dr. Lekbua personally understands what it takes to be ambitious, resourceful, and strategic to achieve academic success. An avid learner, she loves helping students learn, whether at the K-12 or college level. In her free time, she enjoys long walks with her rescue puppy, being in the ocean, visiting museums, dancing, and ceramics!

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.

Beth recently retired after 33 years in education. She began her career at the university level teaching earth and environmental science. She then transitioned to elementary students focusing on special needs students. She spent the last 5 years as a reading interventionist.

Beth is a patient and easy-going educator who believes in building a relationship with her students. She is excited to help students achieve their academic goals and take pride in their success.

In her free time, Beth likes to garden, spend time at the beach and go on walks with her family and newly adopted rescue dog.

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!

Bryanna is an educator with a strong background in elementary and special education. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Special Education from Salve Regina University. After graduating, she worked as a K–3 special education teacher, where she supported young learners in developing foundational academic and learning skills.

Bryanna is currently pursuing her graduate degree in Speech-Language Pathology at Emerson College, where she continues to specialize in working with elementary-aged students. Her combined training in education and speech-language development allows her to support students in areas such as reading, writing, language, and overall communication. She is passionate about helping children build confidence in their academic abilities while developing strong literacy skills.

Bryanna believes that building meaningful connections with students is essential for learning and progress. She strives to create a supportive, engaging environment where children feel comfortable asking questions, taking risks, and celebrating their successes.
Outside of teaching and tutoring, Bryanna enjoys spending time near the beach and staying active. Her newest obsession is OrangeTheory, where she enjoys challenging workouts and pretending she loves the treadmill.

Carly graduated from Washington University in St. Louis with a BA in Political Science and Educational Studies and Johns Hopkins University with a Master’s in Education. She holds credentials in foundational mathematics in California and Washington DC, where she began her teaching career before moving to San Diego. She also holds a DC credential in Special Education, and has experience providing special education services in inclusion, co-taught, and intervention/support classes.

Carly loves working with students to improve their confidence in math, strengthen their foundational skills, and connect math to real world situations that interest them. Her approach to teaching math uses what students DO know and understand to bridge the gaps in content they are struggling with. In her free time, she can be found baking sourdough, practicing yoga, or at the beach or farmer’s market.

A patient and innovative educator with general and special education experience at all grade levels, including students with disabilities and English language learners.

Cassie is a retired Software Engineer who has taught robotics programming to 8th-12th grade students, and has instructed Computer Science courses at the University of Michigan. She earned a Biology minor while in college, and is passionate about subjects that relate to human health, such as Genetics, Anatomy, and Biochemistry.

She loves teaching any STEM subject, and believes that there are few better motivators than understanding and caring about real life applications. Her teaching style is flexible, encouraging, and patient, and she will notice and celebrate even the small wins. Each semester she signs up for at least one college course that catches her interest, and has lots of tips and tricks to share for learning and remembering new content.

In her free time, Cassie is learning Portuguese, and enjoys lifting weights, taking science classes, and playing board games with her friends.

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.

With over 20 years of classroom experience in English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction and educational administration, Cheryl brings a strong blend of classroom teaching, online instruction, and individualized tutoring to help learners achieve their academic goals. She holds a Master’s Degree in Education, TESOL certification, and a prior Special Education credential.

Over the past decade, Cheryl has supported students from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds through online ESL instruction and one-on-one tutoring. She specializes in creating engaging, personalized lessons that meet each student’s unique needs. Cheryl is deeply dedicated to fostering language and academic growth, promoting cultural understanding, and building confidence in communication across academic, professional, and personal settings. She looks forward to continuing her work with students and helping them succeed in today’s world.

Hi, I’m Christine! I’m an English teacher who loves helping students build confidence, discover their strengths, and have those “Oh, now I get it!” moments.
I support learners with everything from foundational reading and writing to school assignments, test prep, and college essays. My approach is patient, encouraging, and tailored to each student; we’ll break things down, and try different strategies!
Whether your student needs extra support or a new challenge, I want them to feel comfortable asking questions and proud of what they can accomplish. For me, tutoring is about helping students build skills they can use long after our session ends.

Courtney is a dynamic, student-focused mathematics educator with over 15 years of classroom experience supporting middle and high school learners. With a Bachelor’s in Mathematics and a Master’s in Teaching, she brings deep content knowledge and a passion for making math accessible, meaningful, and engaging for all students.
Outside of teaching, Courtney enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and hitting the tennis courts. She is also a music enthusiast and devoted Red Sox fan, and strives to weave students’ personal interests into her lessons to make learning more engaging and meaningful.

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.

Diana A. is a passionate English and Spanish educator with over 17 years of experience helping students develop their academic writing, reading comprehension, and communication skills. She holds a Master’s in TESOL, Literacy, and Culture from the University of San Diego and has taught across both high school and college settings. Diana empowers students to become confident, independent writers through engaging, student-centered lessons that make complex ideas accessible. Her approach combines structured skill-building with creativity—whether she’s guiding students through persuasive essays, college application writing, or literary analysis. Beyond academics, Diana fosters a supportive environment where learners build confidence in expressing their own voices. When she’s not teaching, she enjoys discovering new authors and designing lessons that connect language learning to real-world experiences.

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.

Ell graduated 2025 with a Master’s degree in Writing from Point Loma Nazarene University, completing a thesis on Gothic fiction. She has taught two semesters of English Composition for college freshmen, as well as tutored all grade levels from kindergarten through senior year of college. During her college career, she also written and directed original short plays that were performed at special events. She has helped co-launch longform literary journal Last Syllable, and was Managing Editor for shortform for Whale Road Review. Published in 130+ venues of various genres (essay, poetry, speculative fiction), she is currently expanding her thesis into a full-length novel retelling of Frankenstein. She also loves movies and writes in-depth essays on them, finally putting her ability to quote entire cinematic dialogues to good use.

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.

As a physics researcher and educator, Ezra has gained 7 years of experience instilling students with the guidance and the insights they need to grasp complex topics. He received his B.S. in Physics from the University of Minnesota, and his M.S. also in Physics from San Diego State University. He has taught math to students from elementary through upper division college courses.

Ezra’s enjoys sharing his excitement about math and theory providing deep insight into how the natural world can be quantified. This has translated well into finding ways unique to each learner that make them capable of finding solutions to novel problems on their own after being guided through examples. The flash of recognition that occurs after a student comes to truly understand a concept is a spark he enjoys creating again and again.

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.

Geetha has a double MS in Microbiology and has been teaching for the last two decades as an adjunct faculty, private tutoring and at learning centers. She has been teaching as an adjunct faculty in Biology, Microbiology, Applied Biotechnology at local colleges, where she taught both lectures and hands-on lab instruction. She has also been tutoring privately and at learning centers in multiple subjects like English (English reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, spelling), Math, Science (Biology, AP Biology, Chemistry), test preps like TEAS test for nursing, ASVAB, ASTB, ACT etc.
Geetha is a dedicated, hardworking, patient teacher and passionate about teaching. She has taught many students of diverse social and cultural backgrounds and she realizes that she can fill the gaps that the student has in what they learn at school and helps connect the dots. Her helping hand has been complementary to what the student learns at school. The individual attention, guidance and focus that she provides the student helps them to feel encouraged, confident and do better. She has been able to help many students in their learning by enhancing their understanding of concepts by simplifying them, drawing diagrams, tables, figures, many practice problems for them to understand better. She gives real life examples from her research experience and enabling students to learn through practical, engaging and impactful training.
In her free time, Geetha enjoys music, gardening, yoga and hiking.

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.

Believe! Every student can blossom as a learner! Heather is a “seed planter” and takes care to identify needs and then nurture every learning seed through belief, encouragement and creativity. She knows that whatever is planted and nourished will grow. She invites her students to take responsibility for believing and put in their best effort to develop their garden of understanding. It will grow!

Heather has been a classroom teacher for over 30 years in San Diego, where she was also born and raised. Both of her parents were educators and the passion to make a difference, one child at a time, has been foundational throughout her life.

Whether it is reading, writing or solving math problems, Heather integrates choice and personalized hands-on activities into learning to increase engagement and understanding. She prioritizes building supportive, warm relationships with learners and helps them discover that challenges are opportunities for breakthrough and growth.

In her time away from teaching, Heather enjoys visiting National Parks with her husband and young adult daughters, coffee and connection with friends, reading historical fiction, and has recently discovered the unexpected complexities of using sourdough starter(it brings a whole new level of appreciation for learning curves!).

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.

Jailynn has been an educator for nearly a decade, with extensive experience teaching secondary English Language Arts and leading youth programs within Hawaii’s public school system. She holds a California Single Subject Teaching Credential and a Master’s in Secondary Teacher Education. Her passion lies in literacy and creating inclusive, highly engaging environments where complex reading and writing skills are broken down into achievable steps for diverse learners.

Over the course of her career, Jailynn has served as an ELA Department Head and an after-school program coordinator, handling everything from curriculum mapping to managing student intervention programs. She deeply believes that a student’s academic success is rooted in a strong sense of community and mutual respect. She is highly committed to partnering closely with families to ensure every student feels supported and empowered both inside and outside the classroom.

Having recently relocated to the San Diego area, Jailynn is excited to bring her experience and dedication to new students and families. Outside of teaching and tutoring, she loves spending time with family and friends, reading, and enjoying the beach.

James graduated from the University of Buffalo (Bachelor’s of Science in Environmental Geosciences) and the University of Wisconsin-Madison (Master’s of Science in Water Resources Management). James has almost a decade of experience teaching, including 2 years as a 3rd/4th grade teacher in Pasadena, CA, 5 semesters of undergraduate science courses as a Teaching Assistant during graduate school, and multiple years as an environmental and outdoor educator along the mountains, coasts, and high deserts of California, Nevada and Wisconsin. While teaching math, science, and literacy, James loves building connections with students through games and having fun! James understands that everyone has a different learning style, and he enjoys helping cultivate what works best for students to start understanding the concepts needed to feel successful. He focuses his tutoring energy to help mentor students to become well-rounded humans who develop a love for learning and growing!

In his free time, James enjoys bird photography, playing guitar, playing board games, sports and exploring the natural world around him!

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.

Jennifer has over 20 years teaching experience in sunny San Diego, California. Her current area of expertise is in the science of reading for primary grades. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Studies and a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from San Diego State University. She possesses a CLAD credential which prepares her to work effectively with English Language Learners. She is also a language learner and is bilingual in Spanish.

Jennifer is passionate about making learning to read fun! She uses visuals, games, and tricks to engage her students. She also selects intriguing stories that match the student’s needs. She understands that every student is unique and learns at their own pace. She recognizes that it’s important to tailor instruction and materials to meet each student’s learning style. She also knows that working in collaboration with parents is essential to helping students achieve their goals and develop habits that will serve them as lifelong learners.

Jeradi, an experienced educator, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education from the University of Michigan. She holds Master’s and Doctoral degrees from the University of Virginia. She holds teaching licenses in Virginia and California. She brings depth and breadth to her work with students, including classroom teaching in grades 1- 5 and over 20 years as a reading specialist in grades K-12. Her expertise in education extends to higher education, serving as an associate professor, instructing and mentoring pre-service teachers as well as those pursuing master’s degrees in reading and literacy. She believes all children can learn and places an emphasis on connecting with each learner as a unique individual. This philosophy informs her practice, approaches, and strategies to achieve optimal learning outcomes.

Her favorite free-time endeavors include gardening in the summer, jigsaw puzzles by the fireplace in the winter, and walks with her Boston Terriers year-round.

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 is passionate about her faith and enjoys sports, Snoopy and Woodstock, stuffed animals, and trains. She values spending time with her family and being in nature.

She currently works in an after-school program at a private Catholic school and has three years of full-time teaching experience as a fourth-grade Multiple Subject teacher. Jessica brings approximately 13 years of experience working with children and families in a variety of roles, including AVID tutor, teacher’s assistant, substitute teacher, and classroom teacher. In addition, she has been privately tutoring for 15 years.

Jessica is now pursuing a career as a Child and Adolescent Counselor, driven by her strong passion for supporting children’s overall well-being. She is dedicated to using her teaching background and strong interpersonal skills to positively impact children’s social and emotional health and to support them in any way she can.

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.

Jesus graduated with his Bachelor’s in Geoscience from the University of California, San Diego and earned his teaching credential from San Diego State University. He has a strong passion for education, believing it is one of the best ways to further yourself in life. He has multiple years tutoring in subjects like Math and Science and teaching in a classroom. Jesus is patient when it comes to his student’s learning, understanding it takes time to learn something new. He enjoys establishing connections with students and parents to make sure his students are successful in their academic journey.

Parents describe Jesus as kind hearted, reliable and focus. Using tutoring time not only as a way to know his tutee but also as a way to keep them accountable for their learning. During his free time, Jesus enjoys being outdoors and learning how to cook new recipes. He is currently working on earning his Master’s in Teaching to further hone his skills as a teacher.

Joanne Kim is a dedicated elementary educator with five years of experience teaching third grade. She earned her Bachelor of Arts from the University of California, San Diego, followed by a Master of Education from San Diego State University. She also holds a California Multiple Subject Teaching Credential.

Joanne believes in creating an engaging, inclusive, and student-centered learning environment where every child feels supported and challenged to reach their full potential. She is passionate about fostering academic growth while nurturing students’ confidence, curiosity, and social-emotional development.

Joanne likes to spend her free time with her family, friends and working on DIY projects.

John S. is a fully licensed math teacher in California with five years of experience teaching middle school mathematics. A graduate of Marist College, John began his career on the southwest side of Oahu, Hawaii, where he also dedicated his time to coaching a variety of sports. Now a sixth-grade math teacher at Albert Einstein Academies in San Diego, he is excited to bring his passion for education and mentoring to students at Prep Academies. John believes in building strong relationships with his students and their families, and he applies his coaching philosophy to the classroom to help students succeed both inside and outside of their academic pursuits.

He believes in building strong fundamentals in arithmetic and equation solving and emphasizes this in each session. He strives to meet each student where they are and hopes each student can find a way to be excited about math, wherever that may be.

In his free time, Jonathan enjoys reading, writing, running, playing golf, and watching sports.

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 also has a strong background in robotics and STEM leadership. He participated in VEX and FIRST Robotics throughout high school and later returned during college to mentor younger robotics students. In addition, he was a counselor with The Social Engineering Project at Stanford where he mentored 5th–6th graders.

Parents describe Joshua as reliable, focused, and effective. He uses tutoring time intentionally, keeping students on track, holding them accountable, and providing gentle redirection when needed. Joshua spends his free time with Church activities and trading card games.

Ju graduated with a BS in Chemical Engineering from Caltech, a MS in Material Science and Engineering from Northwestern University, and a PhD in Material Science and Engineering from UCSD. She has gained extensive mentoring and tutoring experience during her studies. Ju recognizes that each student is different and aims to develop an individualized teaching plan for each one, starting with understanding their academic baselines, learning styles, and personal interests. Ju is excited to improve the students’ critical thinking skills, encourage their curiosity in the subject, and develop new learning strategies during her sessions.

In her spare time, Ju enjoys going to the movies, listening to music and going to concerts, and hiking in Anza Borrego.

Kaitlan is passionate about motivating students to believe in themselves and thrive academically. She holds a K–5 multiple subject credential as well as a single-subject English credential, and she earned her Master of Arts in Teaching from Point Loma Nazarene University.

Warm, encouraging, patient, and structured in her approach, Kaitlan brings a steady presence that helps students feel comfortable and confident. She has experience supporting students with attention and focus challenges.

Outside of tutoring, Kaitlan volunteers with the Girl Scouts, mentoring girls in leadership and creative projects. She also helps facilitate artist panels at the Chicano Park Cultural Center and Museum. Her community-minded focus, mentorship background, and interest in the arts help her connect quickly with students and make her an especially strong fit for creative, relationship-driven learners.

I have been working as a TK/Kindergarten teacher for the past 7 years. I have a bachelor’s degree in early childhood development with a multiple subject teaching credential. I also have a M.Ed in teaching and learning. I have been tutoring, both in home and online, for the past 10 years. I really enjoy teaching one-on-one and cultivating a unique relationship with my students. It’s so fun and exciting to watch a child go from struggling with something to being excited to do it. I love seeing that transformation.

Kat is a passionate, warm educator who loves helping students build confidence and discover their own love of learning. She grew up in San Diego and loves spending time outdoors, staying active, and enjoying the sunshine. Kat has spent the last five years working as a 3rd and 4th grade elementary school teacher in public schools, where she has developed a deep understanding of how to support students academically, socially, and emotionally.

Kat is efficient, goal-oriented, and invested in helping students reach their full potential. She believes learning should feel encouraging, engaging, and personalized to each student. She loves getting to know the students she works with and finding ways to make challenging concepts feel more approachable and manageable. Her goal is not only to help students succeed academically, but also to help them feel confident, motivated, and proud of their progress.

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.

Kaylin is an experienced elementary educator with nine years in the field, including roles as a transitional kindergarten, third-grade, and fourth-grade teacher. She received her Master’s degree in Teaching and her multiple subject teaching credential from Chapman University. Kaylin has experience working in both public and charter schools in San Diego and Orange County. Before becoming a classroom teacher, she worked as a reading specialist and special education instructional assistant, giving her a strong foundation in supporting diverse learners. Kaylin teaches with a whole-child approach and believes that strong parent-teacher communication is essential to student success.

In her free time, Kaylin enjoys spending time with her husband, son, and Golden Retriever, taking a work out class, visiting new coffee shops, and being outside.

Kaylin believes that every child deserves a high quality education in a supportive environment where they can thrive. She believes that adding fun and excitement into learning is important and is excited for the opportunity to work with your family!

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.

Kevin is a former high school math teacher with over 30 years of teaching and tutoring experience. He has created and taught three math courses for a local California college and has previously taught at Palm Beach State College in Florida and CT State Community College in Norwalk, Connecticut. Kevin is also the author of two math books: The SAT Mathematics Solution Guide and Quantitative Reasoning. In addition to teaching, he consults and provides corporate training in Excel and Microsoft Office products, and he conducts a series of courses at MiraCosta College.

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.

Experienced and energetic teacher with 10 years of classroom teaching. Masters degree in cross cultural teaching, Barton and Waldorf trained. Expert with Adhd, dyslexia and Asd students. Together we can work with challenges to create life long and confident learners.

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

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.”

Kiseme holds a Master’s in Teaching along with dual credentials as a Multiple Subject Teacher and Education Specialist. He has a gift for making learning fun and engaging, often bringing project-based activities and critical thinking into his lessons. Kiseme loves working with students of all abilities, including those in special education, and takes pride in helping each child feel confident and capable. His favorite subjects to teach are reading, writing, and math, where he focuses on building strong foundations and encouraging problem-solving in meaningful, practical ways.

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.

Liz has over 26 years teaching experience in elementary school, including every K-5 grade level and one year as a K-8 home school support teacher. Her recent professional development includes training in the Orton-Gillingham (OG) Reading/Writing Method, Lexia LETRS​ Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling, Cognitively Guided Instruction (CGI) for Math, and Guided Language Acquisition Design (GLAD). She has received the following degrees and credentials from San Diego State University (SDSU): Master’s Degree in Reading Education with Reading Specialist Credential, Multiple Subject CLAD Credential with Supplementary Mathematics Authorization, and Bachelor of Science, in Computer Science & Psychology.

Liz has successfully worked with students from very diverse backgrounds and supported their individual needs with targeted differentiated instruction and social-emotional support. She builds positive relationships with her students and enthusiastically supports them to achieve their academic and personal goals. She also understands the importance of collaborating with the student’s family in order to maximize the student’s growth and well-being.

She is available for in-person and/or virtual online tutoring sessions.

Madison M. earned her Bachelor of Arts (BA) from the University of California, Santa Cruz in Psychology and Education. She attended High Tech High Graduate School of Education (HTH GSE) where she earned her Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and Master of Education (MEd) in Teaching and Learning.
Madison worked at High Tech High Elementary Explorer as a Kindergarten Teacher, Instructional Leader, and Teacher-Resident Supervisor. She is passionate about foundational literacy and committed to students’ reading success.
In her free time, Madison enjoys cuddling with her cats (Lily and Phoebe), going to live music shows, and playing soccer.

Mark is a San Diego native that attended University of California Davis, graduating in 2002 with a major in Human Development and Psychology. He then proceeded to earn his Masters in Education from the University of Phoenix in 2008. He has been the supervisor of elementary afterschool programs and has taught at a local private school since 2010. He specializes in early literacy, reading, humanities, modern world and US history courses. His love and desire for knowledge drives him to continuously dive into unfamiliar topics gaining perspective from a wide range of mentors and professionals.

With free time, Mark enjoys being on the water, sailing or fishing for tuna. He is an avid outdoorsman, spending vacations hiking, camping or riding his Harley up the 101, Pacific Coast Highway. Mark believes there is nothing better than smiling with friends around a table full of tasty food!

She is a native French speaker and speaks Spanish too. She has 20 years of experience tutoring all levels of French and beginning Spanish. She has relatives in both France and Switzerland and friends all over Europe. She spent 2 years in Madrid, Spain, living with a Spanish family there during her university years. She has a Bachelor’s Degree from San Francisco State University and she has an Emergency Teaching Credential from the state of California.

Her teaching approach emphasizes real world communication, cultural understanding, and personalized instruction tailored to each student’s goals, whether for academic achievement, travel, professional advancement or personal enrichment.

She creates her own lessons tailored for the students’ needs. She believes language learning should be fun, supportive, and empowering, and she strives to create an environment where each student feels comfortable taking risks and growing their abilities every day. She hopes you will join her because together they can make a difference.

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.

Mathew holds a Master of Education from National University, Master of Arts in Psychology from San Diego State University, and is a California credentialed mathematics teacher. He has taught Integrated Math at the high school level and has several years of experience as an adjunct psychology professor at Cuyamaca College, where he teaches both college and dual-enrollment students. His background in both mathematics and psychology gives him a unique perspective on how students learn and build confidence.

Mathew believes that every student is capable of succeeding in math with the right support and encouragement. He strives to create a positive, low-pressure learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and making mistakes. Rather than simply teaching students how to get the right answer, he focuses on helping them understand the “why” behind mathematical concepts so they can become independent, confident problem-solvers. Whether a student is catching up, preparing for an exam, or looking to get ahead, Mathew tailors each session to fit their individual learning style and goals.

Outside of teaching, Mathew enjoys exercising, cooking, traveling, reading, and discovering new restaurants around San Diego. He also loves cheering on San Diego sports teams and is always happy to share book, movie, or travel recommendations with his students.

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.

Meg Kell is a dedicated educator specializing in supporting TK–4 students with learning differences. She holds a degree in Early Childhood Education and Psychology from Elon University in North Carolina and brings a warm, encouraging approach to her work. Born and raised in Virginia, Meg recently relocated to San Diego, bringing with her years of experience from both private and public schools.

With a focus on early literacy, reading intervention, and mathematics, Meg has successfully worked with a wide range of student profiles, including those with ASD, ADHD, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, and executive functioning challenges. She tailors her instruction to each learner’s strengths, helping students feel that they are capable.

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!

Micaela is an enthusiastic and student-centered educator with several years of experience in education. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a focus in English and has worked in a wide range of educational environments supporting learners of all ages.

In addition to Micaela’s five years of classroom experience teaching grades 1st through 4th, she has spent several years tutoring students from 1st grade through the college level. She has also been deeply involved in youth mentorship—volunteering with local elementary school programs, working as a camp counselor, and most recently serving as a STEM camp director. Her recent work as an Activities Coordinator at an international language school further allowed her to support students from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds and strengthen her understanding of how to build inclusive learning communities.

Micaela’s teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that students learn best when they feel seen, valued, and safe. She is committed to creating learning spaces that honor each student’s background and learning style, and she designs lessons that are engaging, collaborative, and curiosity-driven. She encourages students to take risks, ask questions, and actively shape their own learning. Her goal is always to empower students to grow with confidence and feel supported both academically and personally.

Outside of teaching, Micaela enjoys spending time outdoors, whether at the beach or in the mountains, trying new restaurants around the city or experimenting with recipes at home, and enjoying quality time with friends and family. She looks forward to the opportunity to work with you and your student!

After working with hundreds of students, Michael understands that struggles with math and science are incredibly common—and that students are not alone. Often, classroom teachers don’t have the time to adapt to every student’s unique learning style. That’s where Michael steps in: he works closely with each student to find the approach that makes the most sense for them. His past students have gone from being frustrated by a single problem all day to breezing through it with just a small shift in perspective.

Michael’s teaching experience spans a wide range of settings, from one-on-one tutoring in high school to leading review sessions for hundreds of college students. He was even selected as the pedagogy fellow in his graduate program, responsible for preparing incoming graduate students to teach—an honor that reflects both deep content knowledge and outstanding instructional skill. This high-level perspective on effective teaching methods enables Michael to bring exceptional flexibility and responsiveness to his tutoring sessions.

In terms of subject expertise, Michael brings thousands of hours of experience, including 11 years of tutoring, 7 years as a teaching assistant, 2 years of instructing college courses, and both a PhD and a BS in Physics, along with an undergraduate minor in Mathematics. With this foundation, he is confident in his ability to work through any course material alongside his students.

Michael’s tutoring journey began in high school, when he noticed that many of his peers didn’t know where to turn for academic support. This inspired him to explore Universal Design for Learning—an approach that emphasizes presenting content in multiple formats to meet different learning styles. Since then, he has supported college students in tutoring centers, led supplementary instruction sessions, and taught lecture and lab courses at the university level. Michael creates a learning environment where students feel safe to ask questions, engage deeply in discussions, and leave sessions empowered to apply their learning in the real world. He brings this wealth of experience to every tutoring session to help students get exactly what they need from their education.

Morgan is a passionate educator with experience teaching English and history, as well as leading STEM education programs in outdoor learning environments. She enjoys working with students of all backgrounds and learning styles, helping each learner build confidence and discover their strengths. Morgan has earned multiple certifications through the Dyslexia Training Institute and is currently pursuing her special education credential, further expanding her expertise in supporting students with diverse learning needs.

She graduated from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa with degrees in Anthropology and English. One of her favorite travel experiences was visiting Machu Picchu, Peru, and her favorite book of 2026 is Butterfly Yellow by Thanhhà Lại.

Outside the classroom, Morgan enjoys hiking, reading, and coaching and playing beach volleyball.

Ms. Jang taught Math and Mandarin for 28 years at Hilltop High School, Bonita Vista Middle School, Eastlake Middle School and Options Secondary School in Chula Vista, California. She also has taught Financial Accounting and Mandarin at Southwestern College in Chula Vista, California.

Ms. Jang has a BA in Western Languages and Literature from National Cheng-chi University, Taipei, Taiwan, MS in Accountancy from San Diego State and has passed the CPA license examinations, and a teaching credential from San Diego State.

She is best known for her passion to teach math and her dedication to her students. She firmly believes that each one of us is capable of learning anything and needs to be seen as an individual learner who has his/her own strengths and needs. She emphasizes the individual pacing based on assessments and building trusting relationships with students and parents to facilitate and further the desired learning goals and outcomes.

Ms. Jang has been married for 35 years, has an adult daughter and son. In her spare time, she likes to decorate her yards with garden flowers and plants and rescue struggling plants. Additionally, she likes to cook homemade meals, travel, learn a different language (Japanese currently,) listen to watch true crime stories in podcasts, audibles or on TV. Her all time favorite hobby would be the thrills of bargain shoppings. She also likes to give a her helping hand as needed when she can.

Nathan is a licensed history teacher with both bachelors and masters degree from Baylor University in Texas. He has always had a love for history and social studies in general. In his free time Nathan enjoys reading, watching all manner of sports and sailing.

Nicole Drousé is a credentialed K-12 educator with 13 years of classroom teaching experience. She currently teaches 2nd grade and has previously taught 1st and 3rd grade. Nicole holds a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and a Master’s degree in Education. She is trained in Cognitively Guided Instruction (CGI) and the LETRS program, with a particular specialization in phonics instruction.

Nicole is highly skilled in building strong student relationships, fostering a positive classroom community. She has worked extensively with students of diverse cognitive, physical, and academic abilities, including those with disabilities. In addition to her core classroom roles, she has provided reading intervention for 4th and 5th graders and has experience working with middle school students through yearbook club and coaching.

Outside of the classroom, Nicole is passionate about sports. She has coached middle school volleyball as well as her children’s recreational teams. Nicole grew up playing soccer, softball, and volleyball, and continues to enjoy watching and participating in sports. As a mother of three, her favorite family activities include spending quality time together, being creative, going to the beach/swimming, and traveling.

Rafael has been teaching for more than 6 years. He has taught students across a range of ages and learning levels. With experience teaching, he helps learners develop confidence in communication, vocabulary, grammar, and cultural understanding. He has taught foreign students to learng English as a second language and has helped American students learn Spanish, French, Portuguese and Italian. He has additional experience in the sciences notably in chemistry and biology. This additional strength helps allows him to explain complex scientific concepts clearly and in an engaging way. Combining patience, adaptability, and a student-centered approach. Rafael strives to make learning accessible, practical, and enjoyable.

Some of Rafael’s personal interests are reading, traveling, learning new languages and about cultures.

RayShon is a middle school educator and tutor based in San Diego with experience teaching both math and history in Title I schools. He is passionate about helping students develop a growth mindset, strengthen critical thinking skills, and build confidence in their ability to learn and succeed. He holds a Master’s in Education and a degree in Audio Production, and is currently pursuing graduate studies in Marriage and Family Therapy. His background in both education and counseling has deepened his understanding of communication, learning differences, and the importance of meeting students where they are.

RayShon enjoys making learning engaging and meaningful through creativity, discussion, and real world connections. His goal is to help students feel supported, capable, and motivated both inside and outside the classroom. Outside of teaching, RayShon enjoys music production, writing, exploring creativity through art, and spending time with his wife and three children. He especially enjoys listening to music with his family and having spontaneous dance parties around the house.

Sadia is a credentialed elementary school teacher and current substitute teacher with a Master of Education from High Tech High Graduate School of Education and a bachelor’s degree in Public Health from Sacramento State. She has experience working with students across grade levels in classroom, small-group, and hands-on learning environments.

Sadia believes students learn best when they feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and being themselves. She is patient and adaptable and enjoys finding different ways to explain a concept until it clicks. She values getting to know each student as an individual and helping them become more confident and independent learners.

Outside of teaching, Sadia enjoys exploring San Diego, spending time outdoors, staying active, listening to music, and volunteering in her community.

Sandra has her Masters in Education, Single Subject History Teaching, Technology, AI, Orton Gillingham Trained. She has a passion for helping students create & activate learning plans that support positive outcomes.

Star is an enthusiastic educator with 11 years of teaching experience.

She is originally from Los Angeles and has been living in San Diego for the past 12 years. She and her husband have three pets: Arley, their fearless leader; Mo, their 45-year-old desert tortoise; and Ace, their 95-lb. baby. When she’s not teaching, you can find her rock climbing, paddleboarding, doing archery, camping, listening to music, or enjoying a good nap.

Her goal as an educator is to help students build confidence, strengthen their skills, and develop a more positive relationship with learning—especially when it comes to Math! She loves helping students work through that “I can’t do this” feeling and reach the moment when something finally clicks. She meets students where they are, celebrates their wins, and creates a safe space where mistakes are simply part of learning.

Star is also LETRS trained and certified, with in-depth training in how children learn to read and spell. She brings that knowledge to her work with students, recognizing where they need support and providing clear, step-by-step instruction in phonics, spelling, vocabulary, and reading comprehension.

Above all, she wants her students to leave their time together feeling more capable, confident, and proud of what they can do.

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.

Téa brings a distinctive interdisciplinary academic background to her teaching, with three degrees and a post-baccalaureate certification across multiple fields, including the sciences, Spanish linguistics, and classical music! She is currently pursuing a PhD with a focus on neuroscientific research. Her academic path reflects her belief that different fields of knowledge are deeply interconnected, and that understanding those connections can lead to a richer and more intuitive approach to learning and to life overall.

She has had the opportunity to teach and support learners across a wide range of ages, from young children and adolescents to teens, adults, and senior adults. Her experience as a behavioral therapist and interventionist with younger learners taught her the importance of meeting each student as an individual—understanding how they communicate, what interests them, and what helps them engage with new ideas. She has also helped adults develop practical skills, from basic computer competency in an increasingly digital world to teaching them how to shred on guitar!

In her spare time, she can usually be found curating the perfect song playlist, cooking something spicy, or enjoying the great outdoors.

Tiffany is a recent graduate of Arizona State University, earning her Master’s in Elementary Education. She also holds a B.A. in Biology and Spanish with a minor in Psychology from West Virginia University. Her experience spans from student teaching to after-school programs and summer camps, which have allowed her to work with a wide range of students in grades K-6.

Passionate about inquiry-based learning, Tiffany advocates for student agency and creative expression. She enjoys designing engaging enrichment projects and incorporates the arts into her lessons whenever possible. Her goal is to nurture each student’s intrinsic motivation to learn while fostering self-confidence and a love of discovery.

Outside the classroom, Tiffany can often be found curled up with a good book and her cat. She also enjoys hiking, playing games, solving puzzles, and traveling. As a newcomer to San Diego from a small town in West Virginia, she’s always eager for recommendations on local sights and activities!

Tom E. is a retired high school physics teacher with over 40 years experience, teaching college prep physics and AP physics. He has a physics degree and a minor in math from SDSU. He enjoyed the classroom, doing many demonstrations and developing hands-on physics activities to inspire students to inspire in the think and appreciate the world around them. Tom has a positive outlook on life and loves to see the excitement in students eyes when they understand…

Victoria specializes in K–7 instruction across all core subjects and has extensive experience supporting students with ADHD, English learners, autistic learners, and gifted students in classroom, virtual, and one-on-one tutoring/teaching settings. She holds a Master’s Degree in Math, Science, and Technology Education from the University of San Diego and a Multiple Subject CLAD Teaching Credential.

**Fun Fact about Victoria:** For 10 years, she served as a Teacher Leader with People to People International, traveling to dozens of countries with hundreds of students. Somewhere between airport security lines, lost luggage, and learning to say “Where’s the bathroom?” in multiple languages, she discovered that the best classrooms don’t always have four walls. Those adventures strengthened her belief that learning happens everywhere, and that travel is the best form of education.

Victoria is passionate about helping students build confidence, celebrate their progress, and discover that they are capable of far more than they think. She believes every child can succeed with the right support, a little encouragement, and occasionally a well-timed snack break.

When she’s not teaching, you’ll probably find Victoria planning her next adventure, trying a new recipe, playing pickleball (where she insists every shot was *almost* perfect), paddle boarding, or reminding everyone that teachers really do know how to have fun—even if they can’t resist correcting a menu typo.

Violet is a special education teacher with over 10 years of experience supporting students with diverse learning needs. She is also a Structured Literacy tutor trained in the Orton-Gillingham approach. Throughout her career, she has worked with students with autism, ADHD, and dyslexia, helping them build confidence and succeed academically.

Violet believes that children learn best through exploration and hands-on experiences. Her lessons are interactive, multi-sensory, and carefully designed to keep students engaged by using movement, tactile materials, and meaningful practice to strengthen learning.

She earned her B.A. in Liberal Studies from Azusa Pacific University and her M.A. in Teaching from Point Loma Nazarene University. Violet is deeply committed to continued professional growth and regularly takes literacy courses to improve her practice and better serve her students. She is always researching new strategies, connecting with other educators, and staying current through professional communities and podcasts.

In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family at the San Diego Zoo or exploring new coffee shops.

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.