SOPHIE M.

Sophie M. is pursuing her Bachelor of Education and holds a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering. She brings a strong background in mathematics and science to her work in education. She is fluent in English and French. She supports students in their academic and personal growth, as a Learning Assistant at Foundations for the Future Charter Academy (FFCA). She previously served as a Teacher Assistant at La Mosaïque School, where she gained valuable experience supporting diverse learners in a French environment.

Sophie is passionate about helping students develop confidence, curiosity, and critical thinking skills. She values inclusion, collaboration, and emotional support, and strives to create a positive learning atmosphere where every student feels respected and motivated to succeed.

With her combination of analytical skills, teaching experience, and genuine care for student well-being, Sophie is dedicated to promoting academic excellence and lifelong learning through her role as an academic tutor.

Brian V.

Brian holds a Ph.D. in Physics from UC San Diego, where he spent over five years as a graduate teaching assistant. With the long-term goal of becoming a professor, he is deeply committed to teaching and mentoring others to “give back” his knowledge. In 2023, he received the Distinguished Senior Graduate Teaching Award from the department in recognition of his dedication in this area.

Having both studied and taught math and physics for many years, Brian understands the challenges that often come when learning these subjects. His approach is to guide students through example problems by breaking them down into clear, manageable steps. He believes that, with the right guidance, every student can develop the skills and confidence to solve problems independently.

In his free time, Brian enjoys sailing with the Maritime Museum of San Diego—a hobby that, much like teaching, requires patience and a good sense of direction!

Matthew D.

Matthew grew up in Brenham, TX, and earned his Bachelor of Science in Physics from the University of Texas at San Antonio, graduating magna cum laude. During his studies, he discovered his passion for teaching and helping students understand math and physics in ways that make sense to them.

Since 2021, Matthew has been a full-time educator in the Austin area, teaching and tutoring a wide range of subjects, including Pre-Calculus, Calculus I & II, Geometry, Algebra, and AP Physics. His teaching philosophy centers on building a strong conceptual foundation and adapting lessons to each student’s unique way of thinking. He has also worked successfully with students with learning differences such as dyscalculia, dysgraphia, ADHD, and autism.

Matthew’s structured yet flexible approach helps students gain both confidence and mastery in their coursework. He is known for his patience, clear explanations, and ability to make challenging material approachable.

Outside of teaching, Matthew enjoys hiking, biking, reading, playing volleyball, and exploring new restaurants around Austin. (Fun fact: he once hacked Mario Kart Wii to add custom races!)

Jason L.

Jason is currently a Finance major at the McCombs School of Business at The University of Texas at Austin and will be joining Bank of America this upcoming summer. Jason previously served as a STEM tutor for a non-profit organization, where his lessons in robotics and related fields reached more than 500 students.

He has extensive experience working with peers and younger students in mathematics, reading, and business fundamentals, including his involvement with DECA competitions. Jason brings patience, structure, and creativity to each session, helping students build both confidence and mastery in their coursework.

As a high school math tutor, Jason specializes in helping students strengthen their understanding of algebra, geometry, and pre-calculus while developing the critical thinking skills needed for long-term success. He believes that every student learns best when lessons are personalized and connected to their individual interests.

Outside of academics, Jason enjoys exploring new restaurants, hiking, and playing pickleball.

Anthony (AJ) L.B.

Anthony (“AJ”) La Barca is a Ph.D. student in Aerospace Engineering at the University of Colorado Boulder. He holds a B.S. in Physics & Astronomy with minors in Computer Science, Mathematics, and Music from the University of Rochester. AJ has extensive experience tutoring and teaching at the middle-school, high-school, and collegiate levels, serving as a teaching assistant in both physics and aerospace engineering courses. Proficient across math, physics, computer science, and engineering topics, he strives to make complex concepts accessible and engaging for students of all levels. Outside of academia, AJ is an avid rock climber, skier, and photographer, often combining his love for science and the outdoors through astrophotography.

Madison R.

Madison is a 3rd year Ph.D. student studying Aerospace Engineering at the University of Colorado Boulder. Her research is on fixed-wing drones that provide aerial information gathering. Throughout undergrad and graduate school, Madison has been a Teaching Assistant in the aerospace department for various aerodynamics and aircraft dynamics classes.

She has spent the last 5 years tutoring middle and high school math and science, as well as SAT/ACT prep. During her time as an undergraduate student, she has worked for Disability Services at CU Boulder, where she was a peer mentor for students in applied math. Needless to say, she has an immense passion for education and mentorship!

Outside of school, Madison can be found with her two horses, Penelope and Daisy, who she trains and competes in three-day eventing and show jumping — or coaching young equestrians!

Robert S.

Robert is a professional and engaging tutor with 15 years of tutoring experience. He has Bachelor’s degrees in both Math and Chemistry and a PhD in Computational Chemistry from Stanford University. He specializes in high school and college level math and chemistry courses in addition to standardized test preparation in these areas. His level of subject matter expertise and understanding of students’ individual preferred learning styles helps his students achieve great success in their studies. His teaching style focuses on asking the student questions to allow them to arrive at the answer, which results in better memory and pattern recognition when they inevitably later see similar types of problems. He understands that every student is unique and has the patience to work with them on the strategies and methods that will set each student up for success.

Atousa P.

Hello, my name is Dr. Atousa P., and I’m passionate about helping students succeed in math, science, chemistry, and physics. I earned my Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from York University, where I taught and supported a wide range of courses— from physics and chemistry labs to advanced engineering design and sustainability courses. I’ve also worked closely with high school students through STEM outreach programs, guiding them in hands-on projects that make learning both practical and fun.

I believe every student learns differently, and my goal is to create a supportive, confidence-building environment where they can thrive. Families often describe me as patient, approachable, and encouraging. I take complex topics and break them down step by step, making them easier to understand and apply. Whether a student is struggling to keep up or aiming to excel, I tailor lessons to their pace and strengths.

I offer both in-person and online tutoring, always ensuring sessions are structured, engaging, and connected to real-world applications. My aim is not only to help students improve their grades but also to spark curiosity and build lifelong learning skills.

I’m excited to partner with families to help students grow in confidence and discover the joy in learning math and science!

DAVID O.

David has been a school teacher for more than 20 years. He loves helping kids to reach their goals in life. His favorite subjects to teach are Languages (especially French and Spanish), math and social studies. He loves creating a nice environment in class in which my students learn and have fun. This extends to one on one support as well – David strives for his lessons to always be a combination of fun and deeper understanding.

FRANCIS S.

Francis has a Master’s degree in Applied Math from York University. He is a former instructor for Calculus (MATH 265) at the University of Calgary. Francis has worked with a wide range of students to help them improve their math skills. From learning about fractions in middle school to taking the definite integral in a university calculus course. He views math tutoring as both a profession and a hobby of his.
Francis has a growth mindset and believes that every student can reach their full potential given the right support.