Reena S.

Reena is working towards a Double Honours degree in English and Creative Writing at the University of Toronto. Her passion for education began early, from tutoring as a high school student to expanding her expertise through pedagogical study and hands-on teaching practice during her senior-year placement. With experience in both self-employed tutoring and formal instructional settings, Reena is dedicated to guiding students in developing critical thinking, refining their language and writing skills, and cultivating a deeper appreciation for learning.

Shan T.

Shan has a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Toronto, where he double majored in Population Health and Psychology. With a solid understanding of both science and human behavior, he enjoys helping students understand complex topics in a way that makes sense to them.

Having worked with students from elementary to high school, Shan knows how to break down lessons into easy-to-understand steps. He is patient, supportive, and always encourages students to ask questions and stay curious. His goal is to help students feel confident and capable in their studies.

When he’s not tutoring, Shan enjoys spending time with his family and friends. He values these moments and believes in the importance of a good work-life balance.

HAYLEY W.

Hayley is an Ontario Certified Teacher (OCT) with a diverse range of teaching experience across various grade levels. Currently working at an independent IB school in Toronto, she is passionate about creating engaging, inquiry-based lessons that inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and a love of learning. With a Bachelor of Education in Primary/Junior, Hayley is skilled at designing hands-on lessons that cater to the individual needs of her students.

Her teaching experience spans a variety of settings, including Montessori classrooms and outdoor education programs, allowing her to bring a well-rounded and flexible approach to her work. She believes in the importance of tailoring lessons to each student’s interests and strengths, creating a positive and supportive learning environment where all students can thrive.

Outside the classroom, Hayley is passionate about gardening and cooking. She is also a proud pet owner of Frankie, her clever cat who loves to show off his tricks! With a commitment to continuous professional growth, Hayley is dedicated to supporting students in their educational journey, helping them develop both academic skills and a lifelong love of learning.

TANAKA S.

Tanaka holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from UBC Okanagan and a Fashion Design Diploma from the Visual College of Art and Design. Currently pursuing advanced teaching coursework to refine her educational strategies, she is a lifelong learner dedicated to language, communication, and helping students succeed.

She specializes in structured, adaptive learning designed to support students with diverse learning needs, including learning disabilities. Tanaka expertly tailors her instruction by breaking complex curriculum tasks into manageable chunks and utilizing multi-sensory tools to match individual learning styles. To ensure comprehensive support, she designs customized practice booklets, encourages active parental inclusion, and provides flexible pathways for students to demonstrate their knowledge. Whether applying preferential seating strategies for focus or allowing alternative response formats, she ensures every student has the tools to thrive. Tanaka seamlessly aligns her sessions with the school curriculum to keep students ahead academically, tutoring elementary and high school students in reading comprehension, writing, and mathematics with profound patience and empathy.

Her professional background includes:

Freelance English Tutor: Enhances reading comprehension, writing skills, and academic confidence.
Back-of-House Operations Coordinator: Trained new hires from diverse cultural backgrounds, sharpening her communication and adaptability.
Fashion & Sewing Volunteer: Teaches youth and adults garment construction, textile identification, and pattern-making.

Self-motivated and dynamic, Tanaka continually explores language, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Outside of tutoring, she is passionate about creative expression through fashion, meaningful networking, and mastering yoga.

Hilary R.

Hilary completed her undergrad education at Western University, majoring in Psychology and Studio Art. She has always wanted to be a teacher, which she feels was a calling for her. She completed her Bachelor of Education at Queen’s University, specializing in Environmental Education and is currently working towards getting her Intermediate teachable in Phys-Ed. Through education and experience, Hilary infuses her teaching practice with passion, creativity, vibrant energy, and a deep sense of patience.

Hilary has worked in classrooms from Kindergarten to Grade 7, with experience teaching internationally at a nature-based school in England for children aged 4 to 8. Both students and teachers can attest that Hilary left a positive mark on her classrooms in these practicums. She currently works as a middle school teacher in Toronto.

In addition to her teaching experience, Hilary has supported children and adults with disabilities, working in elderly care homes and as a disability support worker. Hilary is passionate about the arts and enjoys activities such as painting, pottery, and drawing. She also loves staying active, whether through running, walking, working out, or spending time outdoors.

Hilary brings her expertise and passion to students through Prep Academy, offering support in all subjects from K-8. She looks forward to embarking on this learning journey with you!

Sara V.

Sara is a Junior/Intermediate teacher candidate in her second year of the Bachelor of Education program at Wilfrid Laurier University. She previously earned a Bachelor of Kinesiology from Wilfrid Laurier in 2021, with Health and Physical Education as her teachable subjects.

Her decision to pursue education stems from a commitment to fostering student success and creating inclusive learning environments. Inspired by the impactful educators in her own academic journey, she strives to support diverse learners through differentiated instruction and culturally relevant pedagogy.

With experience teaching Grades 3 to 8 through four practicum placements, Sara has been recognized for her professionalism, competency, and strong relationship-building skills. She is dedicated to continuous learning and growth, ensuring her teaching practices evolve to meet the needs of all students.

Justin B.

Justin is a certified teacher originally from Halifax, Nova Scotia, who relocated to British Columbia to pursue his teaching career. Before heading West, he earned a Bachelor of Science (Honours in Biology Research) and a Master of Science (Research-Based Thesis in Pathology) at Dalhousie University.

As a lifelong athlete, Justin grew up playing competitive hockey. Through years of coaching, he discovered his passion for teaching young people, which ultimately led him to a career in education. He went on to complete his Bachelor of Education at Acadia University in Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley.

During his academic career, Justin was awarded over $100,000 in research and academic scholarships and contributed to eight research publications, including three as a first author.

In his spare time, he enjoys snowboarding, playing hockey, golf, and volleyball, and road-tripping across the country with his family. As an intermediate French immersion teacher, Justin is passionate about building strong relationships and creating a supportive learning environment where all students can thrive.

Rebecca W.

Rebecca W. is a dedicated and experienced professional with a diverse background in teaching, administration, and management. She has a passion for education and has taught English and Business English to students of all ages and levels, from beginners to top executives.

In addition to her teaching experience, Rebecca has also held a variety of administrative and management positions. She is a skilled communicator and organizer, and she is committed to providing excellent service to her clients and students.

Additionally, Rebecca is formally certified bilingual French teacher.  She taught grade 4 French at an all girls private school in Toronto, and specializes in teaching elementary grade French immersion and upper level core French.

Outside of her professional life, Rebecca is an active volunteer in her community. She is the founder and former head coach of the first Lake of Bays Children’s Soccer team, and she is also a former member of the Board of Directors for the Muskoka/Parry Sound Rape Crisis Centre. Rebecca recently received her Level One Ski Instructor Certification and is currently ski instructing on weekends. Rebecca believes that physical activity is important for education and well-being, which is why she stays active and is involved in many different sports.

Francesca S.

Francesca S. graduated with an Honours Bachelor of Arts degree from York University and received her Bachelor of Education degree from York University as well. Francesca’s areas of specialty include the Intermediate/Senior divisions, but she has ample experience teaching in the Primary and Junior divisions as well.

Fully trilingual, Francesca has extensive experience working with students at most grade levels of core French, specifically, Primary to Intermediate.

Francesca inspires and motivates her students with her patience and support. She believes there is a solution to every obstacle. As a dedicated teacher, Francesca finds fulfillment in witnessing her students’ progress and success.
She utilizes numerous engaging and varied teaching strategies and resources that are reflective of the different interests and learning styles of the students. Moreover, Francesca maintains open communication with parents, providing regular feedback and next steps on their child’s progress.

Stephanie S.

Stephanie has been teaching for 30 years. She has a Bachelor of Education from Queen’s University and is qualified to teach secondary school English, Visual Art and Drama, as well as all Primary subjects. She is also a qualified Guidance counsellor, and has her level 1 Principals’ Qualification. Stephanie has taught in Toronto, South America and England. She is very experienced working with children and young adults with a wide range of barriers to learning, including ASD, ADHD, specific learning difficulties, ESL, depression and anxiety.

Stephanie believes that every child has the potential for deep and meaningful learning. As a tutor, she tailors her lessons to her students’ interests, creating engaging lessons that help them overcome their academic challenges while meeting curriculum expectations. With her extensive teaching experience, she provides clear guidance on school assignments, helping students understand complex material and develop strong organizational and communication skills. She has particular expertise in teaching grammar. She is able to integrate art and technology into her instruction to enhance engagement and deepen comprehension.

Along with building skills, Stephanie works at boosting students’ self esteem and helping them to see and believe in their ability to be successful.