Professional Tutoring in York Region

Adrian is a seasoned executive with more than 18 years experience building, leading and motivating teams in a diversity of industries: Waste Management, Capital Markets, Manufacturing, Interactive Gaming and Equipment Rental Solutions.

His strengths include developing and executing on strategy, growing revenues, fine-tuning operational efficiencies to produce consistently profitable revenue and cross-enterprise collaboration to devise and implement initiatives that impact bottom and top-line results

I am the founder and CEO of Prep Academy Tutors (formerly Write at Home Tutoring ) where we bring qualified teachers into your home and provide thorough weekly reports based on our collaborative goals for your child.

Upon completion of my undergraduate degree at Western, I completed a M.DPE from OISE, U of T and was employed for 3 years at OISE running an infant developmental lab, before embarking on my tutoring business.

SPECIALITIES: CHILD PSYCHOLOGY | EDUCATION | PSYCHOMETRICS | INTERPRETATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF PSYCHO-EDUCATIONAL TESTING | EDUCATIONAL GOAL SETTING AND MEASUREMENT |SPECIAL EDUCATION

Our mission at Prep Academy Tutors is to attract and build a network of franchises made up of people who recognize the importance of community, and share a passion for education and business. We strive to deliver the educational tools required for students to not only build self confidence, but achieve higher levels of academic excellence and success.

Alex knew he wanted to be a teacher since he was in high school. He took the first steps towards fulfilling this goal while attending Western University, where he specialized in History and Geography. He then went on to receive his Bachelor of Education at Trent University and is now a committed Ontario Certified Teacher. It was through Alex’s studies that he developed a passion for world travel which led him to seek international teaching opportunities in South Korea. During his 6 years living there, he further developed his dedication to learning while working with teachers and students from around the world. Alex had the opportunity to work as an ESL teacher for the first year. He then went on to teach Economics, AP Economics, World Geography and AP Human Geography at an accredited International School for the next 5 years. During his time off, Alex travelled around the world as well as continued his love of basketball through both playing and coaching his high school team. Alex believes that by building a strong relationship with his students he is better able to meet their needs and help them grow. As a teacher, he continues to develop creative strategies for student learning to support and facilitate their success.

Alina is an Ontario Certified Teacher, receiving her qualifications upon graduating in 2016. She completed a Bilingual (English/French) Undergraduate Degree in Mathematics, alongside a Bachelor of Education. Wanting to combine her love of education and travel, she moved abroad to the United Kingdom to teach Mathematics. She was able to kickstart her teaching career while regularly travelling across Europe during school holidays. After her time in the UK, she was eager to explore another part of Europe. This led her to the tiny country of Luxembourg, where she taught for three years. She loved being able to share her love of Mathematics with so many students and to immerse herself in another culture. After a long year of being stuck at home, she decided that her time abroad would come to an end. She has now returned back to Canada and is excited to help students through Prep Academy Tutors.

Amanda completed her Bachelor of Arts at Wilfrid Laurier University as well as her Bachelor of Education at Nipissing University in 2015. She is an Ontario Certified Teacher with her Primary, Junior, and Intermediate qualifications (Intermediate division in Geography). She has also taken Math Part 1 AQ (Primary/Junior), as well as Special Education Part 1. She has a passion for teaching math and understands that it can be a struggle for some students. She tries to make the lessons as engaging and relatable as possible so students are able to make personal connections with the material. Amanda’s passion for teaching grew as she became more familiar with environmental education and the importance of building a positive relationship with nature. Her ultimate goal is to create a learning environment where her students feel like it’s okay to make mistakes and ask questions.

Amy is an Ontario Certified Teacher in the Intermediate/Senior division. She completed the Bachelor of Education program at Queen’s University with a physics and math degree. Amy is starting her teaching career at an IB private school, teaching DYP Physics and MYP mathematics. She grew up in China and completed her high school diploma in Markham under the Ontario Curriculum. As an OCT teacher, Amy has extensive practical teaching experiences through practicum placements throughout her undergraduate and B.ED degree, employment experience of summer camps, and successful tutoring experiences. Amy is warm and energetic; she always builds a great rapport with her students and tries to help them succeed using differentiated instructions. She finds supporting her students to achieve their goals and success is gratifying and enjoyable. In her spare time, Amy loves cooking, watching TV series, animations, playing games, and searching for her life source – Bubble tea.

Andres is a high school Mathematics and Science teacher entering his second year of full-time teaching. He is passionate about the relationship between sports and statistics and is enthusiastic about connecting learned mathematics to real-world applications. He is a dedicated and committed life-long learner who loves working with youth.

Andrew is an upcoming Ontario Certified Teacher. He spent his childhood growing up in Markham, and through inspiration from his teachers, a passion for teaching sprouted. After completing his Undergraduate Degree at the University of Toronto, Andrew’s passion grew as he became more interested and involved in helping others find success. He channeled his determination and passion for teaching into acquiring his Bachelor of Education at Ontario Tech University. During his time at the university, Andrew helped students comprehend math and science material, and develop their ability to read, write, and problem solve. He has also worked in a variety of settings with different age groups. He has learned how to notice and guide learning from teachers at a daycare program for preschoolers. He has participated in a professional learning community and has implemented strategies to encourage mathematical thinking in students. He has also trained and guided new Starbucks employees to becoming successful and proficient at their job. Andrew enjoys learning about others and the rewarding feeling from seeing others grow. Using the unique characteristics of each student to his advantage, Andrew continues to think of new and engaging learning strategies that cater towards his students. He believes connecting with students and promoting a safe environment develops a growth mindset in students, helping them to achieve academic success. He is confident that adopting this positive attitude will develop student resiliency, allowing more opportunities for meaningful learning. In his spare time, Andrew enjoys spending time with family, board games, and supervising 50-year old children playing Pokemon GO, guiding them to become Pokemon Masters.

Christelle is an Intermediate/Senior Teacher who graduated from OISE’s Master of Teaching program at the University of Toronto. Christelle successfully completed a double degree in Honours Life Sciences and French at McMaster University. Christelle loves working with diverse youth to help them reach their full potential. Christelle successfully completed all her teaching placements in French and Biology, where she used various techniques to allow students to find learning fun and engaging! In two of her placements, she had the opportunity to work in IB schools. Additionally, Christelle has been tutoring for the past two years. In her free time, Christelle loves to swim, hangout with friends, and eat food from different cultures!

Colin is an Ontario Certified Teacher with qualifications in the Primary, Junior, and Intermediate Divisions (Math). He has earned his Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Urban Development and Planning from the University of Western Ontario and a Bachelor of Education from Queen’s University. Colin has Additional Qualifications in Math Part 1, Special Education Part 1, and Kindergarten Part 1. Colin has worked with students of all ages and believes that learning needs to take place both inside and outside the classroom. He works to ensure that students can make connections to real world experiences.

David has a strong academic and professional background. He is a graduate of Jiao Tong University in Shanghai with a degree in Engineering and was a gold medalist in his high school mathematics, physics and chemistry competitions. David currently teaches Math, Physics, and Chemistry at a private academy and is familiar with the Ontario curriculum. David is an enthusiastic and patient teacher who is flexible and organized with the ability to explain complicated concepts in an easy to understand manner. He encourages his students to strive to reach their full potential and achieve their academic goals.

Enerstine completed an Undergraduate Degree in Accounting and Financial Management and Masters of Accounting from University of Waterloo. She has successfully completed the 2020 Common Final Examination (CFE) for the Canadian CPA designation. She is employed in public accounting and is familiar with the application of IFRS, ASPE and ASNPO accounting standards. She is passionate about teaching and working with students. She has been a teaching assistant throughout her university and master’s career. During her free time, she helps out with different local mentorship program that works with youths. Enerstine believes that by building a strong relationship with her students, she can better provide a tailored teaching plan to support each student’s individual needs.

Gary graduated from York University with an Honours Degree in Mathematics, and from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (University of Toronto) with a Bachelor of Education.  He has been tutoring since he was in high school himself, covering all levels of Math—including Functions, Advanced Functions, Calculus and Data Management—as well as English.  In addition, he is experienced with SAT/ACT preparation, and spent 16 years teaching martial arts professionally.  Gary draws on the depth and breadth of his experience to tailor his tutoring to each individual student, aiding them develop the skills to successfully reach their academic goals.

Gerrod Harris has been teaching in a wide variety of classrooms and learning environments for the last seven years. While teaching music both privately and in community centers throughout Markham, Gerrod received his Bachelor of Fine Arts and Education at York University. Certified to teach music and history at the intermediate and senior levels, Gerrod has experience teaching a range of history courses along with English, civics, economics, and senior level social studies. Since graduating in 2017, Gerrod has continued extensively teaching music, while also volunteering and working in high schools throughout the YRDSB; joining the Prep Academy Tutors team is his latest step forward into a well steeped career in education.

As an OCT certified teacher, heather strives to provide students not only the skills to succeed in the classroom, but as well in years beyond. Heather graduated from St Francis Xavier University with a BA in Human Kinectics where she found her passion for helping others through physical activity and one on one support. She followed with her B.Ed in secondary education from the University of Western Ontario. Heather approaches each of her classes and students based on their individual needs catering her approach to the students. Heather’s main goal in the classroom is to instil not only skills but as well as confidence in her students providing them not only extra help and exemplars but as well as additional frame work and lessons on skill building to scaffold each task.

Heather has worked one on one with many students throughout her career modifying instructions or tasks to ensure student success. She has worked with many students providing the skills to accurately approach research, time management, note taking, as well as provide frameworks for essays and teaching the skills of studying. Heather’s motto in her English classroom is “there is not wrong answer, only unsupported answers”, instilling the idea in her students that opinions and answers should have an appropriate amount of support. These lessons can not only be carried over to other classes but life beyond high school as well.

Jayne is an enthusiastic educator with a breadth of experience teaching in Canada [Ontario], New Zealand, Scotland and Nigeria. After having completed her BA Honours in Criminal Justice & Public Policy at the University of Guelph, she went on to complete her teaching qualification through the University of Canterbury in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Having taught using various curricula and across a wide variety of subjects beyond her qualifications, she has become a ‘Jayne of all trades’. A staunch proponent of cross-curricular learning, she is always looking for new ways to make links between subjects to enhance student understanding. She knows that young people learn best when they can relate new information to prior knowledge.

A life long learner herself, Jayne is constantly looking for opportunities for continuing professional development. Most recently, she achieved top marks for courses in the topics of Behavioral Needs and Safe & Accepting Schools through Queen’s University.

Student well being has been a key focus for Jayne throughout her career and since becoming a parent she is now able to view education through another lens. Her life and work experience continue to nurture her growth mindset and inclusive outlook.

Anna Huang is an Ontario Certified Teacher Candidate. She grew up in China and she speaks both English and Mandarin. She moved to Canada to complete an Undergraduate Degree in Physics. Currently, she is working toward her Bachelor of Education at Queen’s University. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she utilized various digital tools to engage students learning in math and science. Anna always tailors her tutoring styles to a diverse population of students, as she believes every student is a different learner. As a senior high school tutor, she likes to be a positive influence and enjoy using her knowledge to help students succeed in school. In her spare time, she loves to hike and explore the outdoors

In 2014, Julian Foglia completed his Bachelor of Liberal Arts (History) from York University and recently graduated from Brock University with his Bachelor of Education degree. Julian is certified to teach Junior and Intermediate English, History, and Science. Julian volunteered in the public school system for several years prior to teacher’s college, however it wasn’t until teacher’s college that he found his own style. During Julian’s teaching blocks, he realized that student learning and engagement happens most when the lessons are authentic. That means that they are not only engaging, but practical. Julian is an avid supporter of the new teaching theories for math where they emphasize real world scenarios. When something is tangible and relatable to the real world, people (not only students) can truly grasp the concept and see the value in it. That’s how Julian wants to teach and in doing so hopes to encourage creativity and ingenuity to the next generation. In his spare time Julian loves to play sports and maintain an overall physical lifestyle. Recently Julian has had the liberty to travel and will continue to do so. He feels that both of his hobbies reflect with his teaching philosophy. Julian has learned that human interactions and experiences through travelling is key to any learning experience, and having a sport-like mentality gives someone the perseverance and tenacity to succeed. Julian hopes to pass on these beliefs to his students in the future.

Kritrika is a highly qualified teacher with a Master’s degree in engineering and technology.  In addition, she holds a dual bachelor’s degree in technology and education.   After completing University she worked as an Asst. Professor teaching B.Tech students for 4 years.

Kritika has taught internationally and is now working as a STEM teacher at a private school in the GTA. She is completing her certification as a Primary/Junior teacher with the Ontario College of Teachers this spring. She is familiar with the full Ontario curriculum for KG-G6 and can teach math to G7 & G8.

Kritrika loves to engage students in different activities and quizzes.  Her teaching style has evolved into a personalized student-centered approach which makes learning difficult concepts easier and fun.

Lawrence is a retired high school teacher from the Toronto District School Board where he taught Business subjects and Math. His love for teaching has compelled him to continue helping young people learn, through tutoring. Reflecting on his long career, he realizes that, when teaching, he is ‘giving’, and that, in the end, is deeply rewarding. It is the source of his passion for helping students. His 40 years in the classroom have given him unique insight into the difficulties students face and the critical junctures they need to bridge, especially in subjects like mathematics, which is highly sequential. However he is a trained business teacher specializing in subjects like Accounting, Information and Communication Technology, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, International Business, Management studies, etc.
He believes his job as an educator is to give his students success.

Liesbeth graduated from the University of Amsterdam with a Master’s degree in Law, and minors in Art History and Italian. In the winter of 2015 her family moved to Canada where Liesbeth became a teacher at a private school and taught Law, History , ESL and French. She is passionate about languages, as she believes they open doors to new worlds, travels and cultures, leading to more understanding. Liesbeth approaches her teaching with the belief that anyone can learn a new language. She values both developing the speaking part and clarifying the grammar maze. With 15 years of experience in tutoring languages, she loves to help students reach their highest potential. Liesbeth has enjoyed an adventurous life filled with travels, work experiences and a beautiful family – she brings her enthusiasm for life into her teaching and hopes to inspire her students to reach their potential.

Lilit is an Ontario Certified Teacher qualified to teach ESL in Intermediate and Senior Divisions. Lilit has a Bachelor’s Degree with honors in English and a Master’s degree in ESL from the American University of Armenia. Lilit has extensive experience in teaching students in different grades, as she has worked as an English Language Teacher and an ESL teacher both in Canada and in Armenia. Her teaching experiences have provided her a great deal of insight into the diverse learning needs of students. Lilit is a caring and a supportive teacher who is passionate about helping students excel in their studies. She is committed to providing a positive and a caring learning environment for her students, while easily adapting to their learning needs. In her spare time Lilit enjoys listening to music and reading.

Lynda has been teaching for York Region District School Board for 31 years. Currently, she is a supply teacher but enjoys tutoring, where she can get to really know her students and help them reach their greatest potential.
Lynda’s Reading Recovery training, varied classroom experiences, in both primary and junior grades, have given her the tools and teaching strategies needed to work with students of all ability levels. Lynda is passionate about making learning fun and always includes games, hands-on activities and humour in her lessons so that her students can experience joy in their learning.

In her spare time, Lynda loves to read, walk in the forest with her foster dog, ride bikes with her family and sing around campfires. Lynda’s love for teaching has taken her through many years in the classroom and, even now, she can’t stop doing what she loves the most, working with young people. She looks forward to an opportunity to work with your child

Mackenzie is a Math and Science tutor who is incredibly passionate about learning. Mackenzie graduated from McMaster University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Neuroscience, and Behaviour, with a specialization in Mental Health, and a minor in Mathematics. She loves to use her knowledge of psychology and pedagogy to tailor education so that it is maximally effective and engaging for her students. Mackenzie is currently in her last year of teacher’s college with the goal of teaching Math and Science in secondary school. Mackenzie has loved Math and Science since she was very young. Mackenzie developed her love of science from her mom, who taught her to always be curious and ask questions about the world. However it was not until she started working as a Teacher’s Assistant and tutor in University that she knew teaching was the profession meant for her. Mackenzie has tutored students from Kindergarten to Grade 12. She has also worked as an emergency supply teacher in K-12 grades and as an Educational Assistant. Mackenzie truly loves the subjects she teaches and wants her students to be as excited about learning them as she is. In her free time, Mackenzie loves reading and taking long walks in nature. She has nearly walked into trees trying to combine her passions. Mackenzie also loves playing video games, listening to music, and petting animals.

Marcus is an educator who believes that passion fuels academic success. Marcus grew up in Markham, where he was homeschooled throughout his primary and junior years. Throughout his intermediate, senior and post-secondary experiences, he noticed a stark contrast between the personalized learning style that one-on-one provides compared to the generalized approach seen in collective classrooms. Marcus has grown to understand the value of one-on-one learning and how it can focus in on particular facets of a student’s academic development in an otherwise busy day school environment. With experience in many Ontario classrooms, Marcus has worked with the Toronto Catholic School Board as well as the York Region District School Board setting up lesson plans and classroom activities to enhance student learning across all main subjects. Marcus’ background in Film and Media studies has influenced his teaching approach, providing students the ability to express their ideas both conventionally as well as visually. Being a sculptor and creative writer in his spare time, Marcus understands through practice that all ideas can be conveyed through a variety of means. It ultimately comes down to discovering the best means of which to bring out one’s full potential.

Marin is an OCT certified tutor and elementary public school teacher with 7+ years of experience specializing in French and Spanish with grades varying from 1 – 12. He enjoys seeing his students learn new things and become passionate about them. He also loves to see them students getting good grades and becoming more confident and happy individuals in their academic lives. He speaks 5 languages and enjoys traveling.

Matt is an Ontario Certified Teacher (OCT), and Economics Faculty member at a private school in York Region. He teaches both AP Macroeconomics and AP Microeconomics and runs the investment club at the school.  Matt has taught students that have been accepted to economics programs at the institutions of Harvard, University of Chicago, and top Canadian universities. He has written economics curriculum for the AP College Board, attended professional development all over the world and is in the process of becoming an AP College Board Reader and Consultant – marking AP exams and instructing AP teachers.  Matt loves inspiring students and introducing them to the world of Economics and is a great tutor.  In Matt’s free time, if he isn’t hitting a squash or tennis ball, he is spending his hours creating financial literacy content.

In 2011, Matthew graduated, with Honours, from York University with his Bachelor of Arts Degree. In 2014, he obtained his Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Ontario Institute of Technology. Matthew has a wealth of experience teaching students abroad and in Ontario. Matthew has a great rapport with all his students. He employs modern technology in his teaching and continually makes his lessons fresh and interesting. He has a passion for History and English and brings enthusiasm and a positive attitude to his students. Matthew is a life-long learner who enjoys listening to music, playing sports, and reading.

Michael is an Ontario Certified Teacher in the Intermediate Division. He completed his Bachelor of Science Honors in Chemistry, and his Bachelor of Education at Queen’s University in Kingston Ontario. He is qualified to teach biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics, as well as the general sciences. His core belief as an educator, both in the classroom and out, is that teachers are there to support students – educators can help to foster positive mindsets, provide resources, and encourage students to succeed, but success is something that can be found in all students. In his spare time, Michael enjoys reading, writing, woodworking, model painting, and historic martial arts.7th

Michael graduated from Western University with a Bachelor of Arts and History and Masters Degree in History. He continued his education by getting his Bachelor of Education at the University of Toronto. Michael is qualified to teach Grades 4-10 and has taken Additional Qualifications in Special Education. Michael is in his 9th year of teaching and has spent many of his years working to develop quality programming for intermediate students. Michael is an avid athlete who enjoys playing many sports. He has been an enthusiastic reader since childhood and enjoys finding new books that appeal to adolescent readers in hopes to enhance student interest in Literacy.

Monica Cheav is an Ontario Certified Teacher who has received both a Bachelor of Education Degree as well as Arts and Science Degree in Elementary Education, from Lakehead University. She is professionally certified in Elementary Education Primary/Junior (K-6) in Ontario, and is currently pursuing her Specialist certification in Reading, Kindergarten, Teaching English Language Learners, and Math. Monica’s love for teaching started when she was in elementary school, staying after to help teachers grade papers, straighten their room and put up bulletin boards. This has shaped her main focus as an elementary school teacher to construct an environment that nurtures students to achieve and prepare them to be life-long learners. Monica ignites her students’ interest in learning by creating opportunities that are challenging, meaningful, and relevant. She believes that teachers must embrace change, encourage innovation, and foster creativity.
Relaxing by the beach with a good book or magazine, hiking new trails, camping at Algonquin Provincial Parks and exploring the waters on a kayak with her family and friends are her greatest pleasures outside of teaching.

Nicole Knudsen is an Intermediate/Senior Teacher who graduated from the Concurrent Teaching Education Program at the University of Toronto, completing her Physical Education and Education degree simultaneously. After her graduation in 2018, she taught High School Science in England for one year. Since returning to Canada, she has worked in a variety of schools teaching Science, Family Studies, Physical Education, Mathematics, English as an Additional Language and Special Education. Outside of school, Nicole enjoys coaching and playing a variety of sports, hiking, camping and cooking. Nicole is committed to helping each student succeed by getting to know their individual learning styles, personalities, strengths and need

In 2019, Olivia graduated from Dalhousie University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and History. In 2021, she completed her Bachelor of Education degree from Queen’s University with Intermediate/Senior qualifications, as well as a concentration in Exceptional Learners. She is looking forward to be working as an Occasional Teacher for the Toronto Catholic District School Board, come September.
She has considerable experience working with ELL students, and intends on taking Additional Qualification courses in Teaching English Language Learners, as well as Special Education and Primary/Junior courses in the near future. She has taught for both the Catholic and Public School Boards across the GTA, as well as virtual school settings. Her goal as an educator is to lead with compassion, tailoring instructional strategies to suit the individual needs and learning styles of her students. Olivia genuinely loves to learn, and hopes her enthusiasm will inspire her students to succeed. She values the unique perspective that every student brings to the lesson, and strives to create a positive rapport with every session. When Olivia is not teaching, you can find her playing the piano, finding her zen doing yoga, or spending quality time with family & friends!

Rania graduated with a Bachelor in Education from The University Of Windsor, and is qualified to teach the primary/junior levels. Rania is also trained in Direct Instruction – Reading Mastery, Fast cycle, Corrective reading, and comprehension programs. Rania comes with tutoring experience in reading, writing, comprehension, and math. Becoming a teacher has been the ultimate goal for Rania. Her passion is to encourage and motivate students to learn and grow in their own individual ways. Rania brings her sense of creativity and love for learning to her teaching. Rania helps students discover their strengths by encouraging them to try their best and not be afraid of making mistakes.

Rania has a beautiful golden-doodle dog, who’s name is Arthur. She loves going on long hikes, being outdoors and travelling! She also enjoys watching sports. Watching the Raptors is her favourite! Rania is excited for the opportunity to work with with your children and family!

Stephanie is an Ontario Certified Teacher. She graduated from York University in 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts Honours in Sociology. In 2019, she graduated from Queen’s University with a Bachelor of Education in Primary/ Junior grade levels and a concentration in Exceptional Learners. Stephanie has taught in a variety of school settings, including both the Catholic and Public School Boards and Private Schools in the Primary and Junior Divisions. Stephanie also holds additional qualifications in Special Education and Teaching English Language Learners. Stephanie’s empathy, positive attitude, enthusiastic leadership and responsibility, are some of the characteristics which she brings forth as a result of her experiences with teaching students. She will continue to educate and inspire young minds as a teacher. Overall, her goal is to support all students’ needs and to get children excited about learning!
Outside of the classroom and tutoring, Stephanie enjoys spending time with her family and friends, staying active by going to the gym and yoga.

Stephen enjoys working with students at all levels across many subjects. He graduated from the University of Toronto with a Masters Degree in Comparative Literature, specializing in English, French, and Russian. Stephen’s primary research focus was the nineteenth-century novel. Stephen received a Masters in Divinity from Regis College, also at the University of Toronto, and his MBA from the University of Warwick in the UK, taking continuing studies in finance at The Bocconi School of Management in Milan.

While Stephen’s background is in English and the humanities, he has tutored extensively in math, and especially enjoys working on problem-solving strategies. Stephen also have several years of experience with all aspects of SSAT and SAT preparation, including not only the quantitative and qualitative sections, but also with application essays after test completion.

Stephen has a real passion for literature, history, and philosophy, spending his free time delving into contemporary works. Stephen has recently taken a liking to nineteenth and twentieth-century history, and believes that as citizens we benefit when we have a fuller understanding of the past.

Susan Li graduated with a Bachelors in Arts and Education from Wilfrid Laurier and Nipissing University. During her 5 years in the Concurrent Education program, Susan gained valuable practicum experiences and learned first-hand the challenges of teaching in the 21st century. 

Right after graduation, she accepted an offer to teach English at an Elementary Middle school where she taught the foundations of literacy in a country where English was a second language. When she wasn’t in school teaching, she travelled all over the country and immersed herself in the language and culture. When she got back, she started her teaching career with the Toronto District School Board. Over the 3 years of working with TDSB, she has taken on multiple LTOs within the primary division (Kindergarten, Grade 2/3, Reading Recovery). She has her Spec Ed (Part 1) and Math (Part 1, 2 and Specialist); she has taken multiple PD sessions such as Number Talks, Reading and Writing Tools and Teaching Autism in the Classroom to expand her professional learning strategies.

 Susan’s passion for teaching started at a young age and the more experience she had with teaching, the more she loved it. Being a part of a student’s learning process, and taking a step back and thinking, “I taught you that?”, was not only rewarding but provided a sense of comfort knowing that she was in the right profession. She believes that all students can be successful given the right supports and encouragement.

Taha is an Ontario Certified Teacher earning his Degree in Education from York University. He has also earned his Master’s degree in both Science and Business Administration. Taha has been teaching high school Mathematics in Dallas and Houston, Texas for the last three years before returning to Canada. Taha has been teaching and tutoring for the past 10 years and is proud to say that all of his elementary students were accepted to their intended high school, and his Grade 12 students had no less than 100% university admission rates, which is something that encourages him to continue working hard.

Tamara has been an Ontario Certified Teacher (O.C.T.) since 2005, teaching grades K-12 across most subject areas. She has a specialization in the Arts, English, Guidance/Careers studies, Primary/Junior Mathematics, and Special Education. Tamara taught with the York Region District School Board for over 10 years, both in elementary and secondary panels. Most recently, she has taught in the private education sector in the middle and senior grades. Tamara studied and received a Master’s of Psychology from Chicago School of Professional Psychology, specializing in Child/Adolescent development and behavior. (M.A. Psych) She is certified in Mental Health First Aid/Crisis Intervention (M.H.F.A., 2018), and has co-facilitated a therapy group for counseling children ages 7-9 years who present with A.D.D./A.D.H.D. at Kinark Family Services. As well, Tamara holds many Additional Teacher Qualifications, most recently in Special Education – Part 1 and Mathematics P/J Part 1.  At Prep Academy Tutors, Tamara mentors and coaches students who have a variety of learning needs or disabilities, supporting them through many academic challenges. Tamara believes in a holistic approach to teaching, and designs lessons that contribute to their overall intellectual, social, mental health, and emotional development. Outside of teaching, Tamara enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, as well as reading, exercise, painting, and photography in stolen moments.

Verant has been an educator for over fourteen (14) years. She completed a Post Graduate Degree in International Law and Politics, and an Undergraduate Degree in Political Science. Verant has always had a passion for teaching, something she believes she acquired from her mother, who is a retired Teacher and School Principal.
Over time, the following tenets have been the building blocks upon which Verant has conducted both her personal and professional lives: Professionalism, Excellence, Hard Work and Optimism and over the years, the following quote by Kofi Annan, has been the backdrop against which she has approached both teaching and tutoring: “Knowledge is power. Information is liberating. Education is the premise of progress, in every society and in every family.”
Over the years, Verant has been privileged to teach students at various education levels – Elementary to University. Those experiences have deepened her passion to change the trajectory of students’ lives. The learning exchange which has resulted from those experiences have been dual, in that while her students have developed an appreciation for learning, which by extension, has aspired them to reach their full potential, Verant, on the other hand, developed a greater understanding of her students, as she learned about their learning styles, and the teaching strategies which complemented the former.
Alongside, having years of teaching experience, Verant tutors students, where she fosters an engaging, personalized one-on-one interactive lesson. She believes that promoting a comfortable and conducive atmosphere for the student, not only promotes excellent tutor-tutee rapport, but bolsters student confidence and success. In her spare time, Verant enjoys reading, gardening, flower arranging, event planning, mentoring young people, cooking, going on nature walks and spending time with friends and family.

Victoria graduated from Queen’s University with her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and English, followed by her Bachelor of Education. She has since become OCT certified, with AQs in Math Part 1 (Primary Junior) and Reading Part 1 (Primary Junior), and currently taking the AQs for Writing Part 1 (Primary Junior) and Intermediate English. She has been teaching within the York Region District School Board since September.  Victoria has been teaching online, helping students adjust to the changes in their educational journey. Victoria believes that all students can meet their full potential with the right tools, and takes an equitable and interactive approach to teaching and learning. She will meet students where they are at and guide them to meet their goals with an individualized approach. Her other passion is music and theatre. She plays the guitar and ukulele, and sings. She loves bringing these instruments into the classroom to help foster an engaging environment, and loves developing drama lessons to help students build confidence. When she’s not playing her music, Victoria enjoys cooking, spending time outdoors, and being with her family and friends.