Maxine P.

Maxine is an Ontario Certified Teacher (OCT) with over 24 years of experience supporting children and families. She specializes in phonemic awareness, reading comprehension, structured writing, and multi-sensory math. Currently a Multilingual Coach with the Durham District School Board, she brings 18 years of classroom experience and a warm, relationship-focused approach to her work.

Her teaching philosophy centres on guided practice, positive reinforcement, and strong communication with families. With a nurturing style and a belief in the power of personalized feedback, Maxine aims to build each learner’s confidence and ignite their curiosity from the very start.

She holds a Bachelor of Education from York University and additional qualifications including Reading Specialistand ELL/MLL Specialist. Maxine’s background as an ECE, PSW, and Educational Assistant further strengthens her ability to support diverse learners.

Outside of teaching, she is a proud mom to two children as well as two beloved fur babies.

SAJIDA J.

With over a decade of experience in child development and pedagogy, Sajida brings a compassionate, creative, and evidence-based approach to education. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Child Development and a Master of Teaching Degree from University of Toronto. Sajida has received additional qualifications in Special Education, English Language Learning, Reading, Mathematics, and the Integration of Technology in Instruction. As a teacher with the York Region District School Board (YRDSB), she possesses a deep understanding of the subject curriculum and utilizes a wide range of resources to support and enhance student learning. Her teaching practice is grounded in Universal Design for Learning (UDL), with a strong commitment to differentiating instruction to meet the diverse needs of all learners.
Trained in the Science of Reading, she employs this structured, research-backed framework to support literacy development. By integrating phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension into her lessons, she helps students build strong and lasting foundations in reading and writing.
In her tutoring career, Sajida is dedicated to empowering each student to build confidence and independence in their learning journey, fostering both academic success and a lifelong passion for learning.
Outside the classroom, Sajida enjoys an active lifestyle, including hiking and pickleball. She is also passionate about world travel, which broadens her perspective and enriches her inclusive teaching practices. Above all, she is committed to nurturing academic achievement, student well-being, and the development of responsible, engaged global citizens.

Frances G.

Frances has a doctorate in Instructional Leadership, a Masters degree in Varying Exceptionalities, along witn a BS degree in Business. Frances has 23 years working with Special Ed students in Elementary, Middle and High school students. Frances also has a Professional license in Exceptional Student Education (ESE), English for Speakers of other Languages (ESOL), Reading Endorsement, and Elementary Certification Grades K-6. Frances is passionate about helping students reach their full potential in school and in life.

Armia F.

Armia is a graduate of the University of Toronto’s Teacher’s College with qualifications in the Intermediate and Senior Divisions, specializing in Social Sciences and Biology. He also holds additional qualifications in Teaching English Language Learners, Mathematics (Intermediate), and Junior Division teaching.

Currently in his second year with the Toronto District School Board and with over four years of tutoring experience, he supports students by first identifying their strengths and uses them to fill learning gaps and build confidence. He has worked with a wide range of learners, including those with developmental learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, and other learning challenges.

He provides practice worksheets and organized study notes that students can use when studying for quizzes and tests and completing homework. To keep students engaged, he incorporates game-based learning to consolidate understanding. He values patience and adaptability especially when working with students who may struggle with attention or focus.

Armia takes a student-centred approach, aiming to foster independence and long-term academic success. Whether your child needs academic support or enrichment, Armia is committed to helping each student reach their full potential through personalized, thoughtful instruction.

Outside of teaching, he maintains a healthy work-life balance through swimming, exercising, playing ping-pong, watching shows and movies and spending quality time with family.

Natalie M.