Ali S.
Ali is an accomplished medical student, neuroscience researcher, and educator who is passionate about helping students build confidence while mastering challenging academic subjects. She is currently pursuing her Doctor of Medicine degree at UT Health San Antonio’s Long School of Medicine with plans to specialize in neurology. Her medical education has reinforced her belief that the ability to teach complex ideas clearly is one of the most valuable skills an educator—or physician—can possess.
Ali graduated with honors from Michigan State University, earning bachelor’s degrees in Neuroscience, Genomics & Molecular Genetics, and Spanish, while also completing the university’s Honors College program. Before beginning medical school, she spent two years as a full-time research fellow at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) studying neurodegenerative diseases. Her research experience also includes work at Stanford University, Michigan State University, and UT Health San Antonio, where she continues to contribute to neuroscience and stroke research. She has co-authored numerous peer-reviewed scientific publications and has presented her research at national scientific conferences.
Throughout college, her research career, and medical school, Ali has consistently served as a mentor and educator for fellow students. She enjoys breaking difficult concepts into manageable pieces and believes every student can succeed when material is presented in a way that matches their learning style. Her patient, encouraging approach creates a supportive environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, working through mistakes, and developing lasting confidence.
Ali provides tutoring across a wide range of subjects from elementary school through college, making her an excellent choice for families seeking support in multiple areas. Her specialties include:
- Mathematics: Pre-Algebra, Algebra I & II, Geometry, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, Statistics, and AP Statistics
- Science: Biology, AP Biology, Chemistry, Anatomy, Physiology, Genetics, Cell Biology, Neuroscience, Pathophysiology, Earth Science, Environmental Science, Physical Science, and Health Sciences
- English & Humanities: Reading, English Language Arts, Writing, Technical Writing, College Essay Coaching, AP English, U.S. History, World History, Geography, Psychology, Sociology, and Social Studies
- Test Preparation: ACT, PSAT/SAT, STAAR, GED, TEAS, MCAT, and advanced study and test-taking strategies
Ali is particularly passionate about helping students develop the critical thinking, study habits, and problem-solving skills that lead to long-term academic success. Whether she’s preparing a middle school student for STAAR exams, helping a high school student succeed in AP Biology, guiding a college applicant through personal statement revisions, or mentoring a future healthcare professional preparing for the MCAT, she tailors every lesson to the individual student’s goals and learning style.
Families especially appreciate Ali’s ability to connect ideas across disciplines. She can explain biology through chemistry, strengthen scientific writing while teaching critical thinking, or connect mathematics to real-world medical applications. Her interdisciplinary background allows her to help students build a deeper understanding rather than simply memorizing information.
Ali believes great tutoring should do more than improve grades—it should help students become confident, independent learners who enjoy tackling new challenges. Her goal is to equip every student with the knowledge, study strategies, and self-confidence they need to succeed well beyond the classroom.
Outside of academics, Ali enjoys reading, traveling, golfing, paddle boarding, spending time with her family and cats, and returning home to Wyoming whenever she has the opportunity.
“We have a great experience working with prep academy, specifically Ali. She was reliable and knowledgeable of my high schoolers Math, English, and Science work. Even PSAT prep. She was flexible each week and provided clear understanding and communication to both me and my student. She is amazing!” – Parent Review
Lindsay C.
Lindsay is an accomplished elementary educator with more than a decade of experience working with children in a variety of educational settings and five years as a certified public school teacher. After several successful years in the classroom, Lindsay chose to transition into private education so she could focus on providing personalized, one-on-one instruction that meets each student’s unique learning needs. She continues to serve North East ISD as a substitute teacher while dedicating her primary professional focus to tutoring students across the San Antonio area. Lindsay earned her degree in Education from Texas State University, graduating with honors while also completing double minors in Psychology and Music. During her time as a classroom teacher in North East ISD, she taught fourth and fifth grade and was recognized by the Texas Education Agency as being among the top 33% of teachers in the state for student academic growth and performance. Throughout her career, she has worked with students ranging from infants to college-age learners, giving her a broad understanding of child development, learning styles, and effective instructional strategies. She specializes in elementary education (K–5 all subjects), reading, writing, English Language Arts, social studies, STAAR preparation, handwriting, spelling, and test-taking strategies. Lindsay has extensive experience supporting English Language Learners, gifted and talented students, and students receiving special education services. She has also taught inclusion classrooms, monitored individualized education plans, and adapted instruction to meet a wide variety of learning needs. In addition to classroom teaching, Lindsay develops educational curriculum and instructional resources used by teachers across the country. Through her curriculum design work, she creates engaging lessons, digital resources, and classroom activities that help students learn in meaningful and interactive ways. Families appreciate Lindsay’s energetic, organized, and encouraging teaching style. She believes every child is capable of success when instruction is tailored to their individual strengths, and she enjoys helping students build confidence alongside strong academic skills. Whether working with a struggling reader, preparing for STAAR assessments, or challenging an advanced learner, Lindsay creates a supportive environment where students feel motivated to learn and grow. Outside of the classroom, Lindsay enjoys reading, taking long walks with her dogs, and continuing to create educational resources that make learning engaging and enjoyable.
Bryana T.
Bryana is a dedicated STEM educator, graduate researcher, and teaching assistant with a passion for helping students discover the excitement of science. She is currently pursuing her Master of Science in Molecular Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Texas at San Antonio through the South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, where her research focuses on developing innovative bacteriophage therapies to combat antibiotic-resistant infections.
Bryana earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology with a concentration in Cellular and Molecular Biology and a minor in Biochemistry from Baylor University. Her strong academic foundation, combined with extensive laboratory research experience, allows her to connect classroom concepts to real-world scientific discovery in ways that inspire curiosity and deepen understanding.
As a Teaching Assistant at UTSA, Bryana teaches introductory biology laboratory courses, leading her own classroom of college students while developing engaging lessons, evaluating student work, and helping students master foundational biological concepts. She has also worked as a STEM camp counselor, introducing younger students to geology and the natural sciences through hands-on activities that make learning both fun and memorable.
Bryana specializes in biology, chemistry, genetics, cell biology, and health sciences, while also tutoring elementary and middle school mathematics, English Language Arts, reading, writing, and social studies. She supports students preparing for AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP English, AP World History, STAAR exams, GED testing, and college-level biology and chemistry courses. Her broad academic background enables her to work effectively with students ranging from elementary school through college.
Students and families appreciate Bryana’s patient, encouraging teaching style and her ability to explain difficult STEM concepts in a clear, approachable way. She believes the best learning happens when students feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and discovering how concepts apply to the world around them. Her goal is not only to improve grades and test scores, but also to help students become confident, independent learners.
Outside of academics, Bryana enjoys hiking, traveling, reading, creative writing, and exploring great films. Whether she’s researching new medical treatments or discovering a new story through literature or cinema, she is driven by a lifelong curiosity and a genuine love of learning that she enjoys sharing with her students.
Desiree H.
Desiree is a dedicated education professional with extensive experience supporting students across elementary, middle, and high school grade levels. With a strong background in special education and individualized instruction, she is passionate about helping students build confidence, strengthen academic skills, and develop a lifelong love of learning.
Desiree holds an Associate Degree in Education and recently completed her Bachelor’s Degree in EC–6 Education. She also holds her Paraprofessional Certification and is currently pursuing full teacher certification through the Texas Teachers of Tomorrow (TOPP) program. Her commitment to professional growth reflects her dedication to providing the highest level of support to students and families.
Throughout her career, Desiree has worked with students from early childhood through high school in a variety of educational settings. Her experience includes serving with City Year, where she provided academic intervention and student support in high-need schools, as well as several years working in both Heritage Academy and Founders Classical Academy. These roles have allowed her to develop expertise in classroom support, behavior management, individualized instruction, and helping students with diverse learning needs succeed academically and socially.
Desiree specializes in elementary education (K–5 all subjects), Algebra, Algebra II, and STAAR preparation for both math and reading. She is particularly skilled at helping students who benefit from additional structure, encouragement, and personalized attention. Her experience supporting students with special needs, autism spectrum disorders, developmental disabilities, and other learning challenges allows her to adapt instruction to meet each student’s unique strengths and goals.
Families appreciate Desiree’s patient, compassionate, and student-centered approach. She believes that every child can succeed when given the right support, consistency, and encouragement. By building strong relationships with students and creating a positive learning environment, she helps learners develop confidence, independence, and meaningful academic growth.
Outside of education, Desiree enjoys traveling, attending community events, spending time outdoors, and making lasting memories with family and friends. Her warm personality and positive energy carry over into her work with students, helping them feel comfortable, supported, and motivated to succeed.
Jazzmin O.
Jazzmin is a dedicated educator and behavioral health professional with a strong background in psychology and a passion for supporting students both academically and emotionally. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Texas at San Antonio and her Master of Science in Applied Psychology from Angelo State University, with plans to pursue law school in the future.
Jazzmin brings a unique, well-rounded perspective to tutoring, combining her academic training with hands-on experience in education and behavioral support. She previously worked as an After-School Care Teacher, where she supported students ages 5–12 with homework, enrichment activities, and skill-building in a structured and engaging environment. In addition, her professional experience in mental health and case management has strengthened her ability to connect with students, support diverse learning needs, and foster resilience and confidence.
She specializes in elementary and middle school instruction (K–8), including math, reading, and writing, as well as English Language Arts, psychology, and test preparation such as STAAR and GED. Jazzmin is particularly skilled at working with students who need additional support with focus, organization, and confidence, including those with ADHD or other learning challenges.
As both a graduate-level professional and a parent, Jazzmin understands the importance of patience, encouragement, and creating a positive, supportive learning environment tailored to each child’s unique personality and needs. She focuses on building strong relationships with her students while helping them develop effective study habits, strengthen foundational skills, and gain confidence in their abilities.
Families appreciate Jazzmin’s warm, approachable style and her ability to make learning both engaging and enjoyable. Outside of tutoring, Jazzmin enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, listening to music, and exploring the outdoors.
Delva P.
Delva is a highly experienced educator and certified school counselor with over 34 years of experience supporting students academically, socially, and emotionally. Her extensive background includes roles as an elementary teacher, middle school mathematics teacher, and school counselor, giving her a well-rounded understanding of how students learn and grow at every stage.
Delva holds a Master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling and a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Learning and Development. She is a certified Texas teacher (Grades 1–8), a certified school counselor, and a certified life coach. In addition to her work in schools, she currently serves as the Director of Education and Family Engagement at Positive Connection Counseling Center, where she develops programs focused on student success, personal growth, and family support.
She specializes in elementary education (K–5 all subjects), middle school mathematics, STAAR math preparation, logic, and supporting students with ADHD.
Delva is especially skilled at helping students build confidence in math while also developing strong organizational skills, focus, and problem-solving strategies.
Known for her warm, supportive approach, Delva prioritizes building strong relationships with both students and families. She creates a positive and encouraging learning environment where students feel comfortable, motivated, and empowered to reach their full potential. Her approach combines academic instruction with social-emotional support, helping students grow not only in their studies but also in their confidence and self-worth.
Families value Delva’s decades of experience, her compassionate teaching style, and her ability to connect with students on a deeper level to foster lasting success.
“Ms. Delva is excellent. My son really likes working with her! She’s kind, patient and very knowledgeable. My son looks forward to the tutoring sessions :)”
-Parent Review
“Prep Academy Tutors has been fantastic to work with. Easy to communicate with and they really “got” what we needed. Delva is so personable and gels with my kiddo so well. She’s fantastic!!! Appreciate what they are doing and how they are doing it so well. Would 100% recommend!”
-Parent
TheCarey L.
TheCarey is an experienced English educator and instructional leader with a proven track record of helping students strengthen their reading, writing, and critical thinking skills. He currently teaches 9th Grade English at IDEA Public Schools in San Antonio, where he helps students build strong reading comprehension, literary analysis, and writing skills while preparing them for STAAR End-of-Course exams. Since stepping into his current classroom mid-year, his students have already shown strong academic growth, including impressive gains on interim STAAR assessments.
Prior to returning to the classroom, TheCarey served in multiple school leadership roles, including Assistant Principal and Regional ELA Content Coach, where he supported teachers across multiple campuses, improved instructional systems, and helped raise student achievement. Earlier in his career, he taught in Harlem and the Bronx, where he built a reputation for making English Language Arts engaging, culturally relevant, and meaningful for students. His students have earned national recognition, including winning Best High School Podcast and Best East Coast Podcast through the StudySync curriculum.
TheCarey holds a Master’s degree in Special Education and has extensive experience supporting students with diverse learning needs, including those with ADHD, dyslexia, and students on the autism spectrum. He specializes in English Language Arts, writing, college essay support, ACT preparation, STAAR and Regents test prep, social studies, technical writing, and helping students develop stronger test-taking and study skills.
He also brings a unique creative perspective to tutoring through his dual bachelor’s degrees in Film & Video and Africana Studies, often helping students connect literature, writing, and history to real-world issues, media, and storytelling in ways that make learning more engaging.
Families appreciate TheCarey’s ability to challenge students academically while building their confidence and making learning feel relevant and enjoyable. His goal is to help students become stronger readers, writers, and thinkers both inside and outside the classroom.
Outside of education, TheCarey enjoys spending time with his wife and infant daughter, exploring San Antonio’s parks and restaurants, watching films, and cheering on his hometown Chicago sports teams.
Aaron O.
Aaron is an award-winning educator and instructional leader with nine years of experience teaching social studies at both the middle and high school levels. He currently teaches U.S. History and serves as the Social Studies Department Head, where he leads curriculum development, mentors fellow teachers, and helps drive academic success across his campus.
Aaron earned his Bachelor of Arts in History from Texas State University and holds a Texas teaching certification in History (7–12). He has been recognized for his excellence in education as the 2021–2022 Distinguished Educator of the Year for both Kirby Middle School and all secondary schools within Judson ISD—an honor that reflects his strong impact on student achievement, instructional leadership, and school community engagement.
Known for bringing history to life, Aaron uses storytelling and real-world connections to help students move beyond memorization and truly understand the significance of historical events. His students have consistently achieved high levels of success, including a 95% passing rate on the STAAR exam. He also specializes in Geography, World History, and Social Studies, and supports students with STAAR test preparation, study skills, and academic organization using tools such as Google Docs and Google Slides.
Aaron is deeply committed to creating meaningful learning experiences. He has organized student trips to Washington, D.C., allowing students to experience history firsthand, and has served in leadership roles including Student Council sponsor and athletic coach, further strengthening his ability to connect with and motivate students.
Families appreciate Aaron’s engaging teaching style, strong leadership background, and ability to make learning both enjoyable and impactful. His goal is to help students build confidence, think critically, and develop a lasting appreciation for history.
Outside of the classroom, Aaron enjoys traveling, exploring historic sites, spending time with his fiancé, and relaxing with their four dogs.
Monika S.
Monika is an experienced educator and former high school Spanish teacher with more than 15 years of experience helping students build confidence and achieve academic success. She has also served as a College Readiness Coach, guiding students as they develop the skills and strategies needed to succeed both in the classroom and beyond.
Spanish was Monika’s first language, a result of growing up in a military family and experiencing a wide range of cultures from an early age. This background gives her not only strong language fluency but also meaningful cultural insight that she brings to every lesson, helping students connect more deeply with the language and its real-world context.
Monika is passionate about helping students experience those powerful “aha” moments when a concept finally clicks. She tailors each tutoring session to the individual student’s strengths and learning style, creating a supportive, engaging environment where students feel encouraged to ask questions, take risks, and grow in confidence.
Outside of education, Monika enjoys traveling, gardening, exploring new cultures and cuisines, and spending time outdoors with her husband, friends, and her dog.
“We love working with Monika! She is incredibly patient, knowledgeable and has a remarkable ability to keep my child engaged throughout each session. She explains concepts in a way that is easy to understand and creates a positive, encouraging learning environment that builds both confidence and skills.”
Marcus C.
Marcus is an experienced education professional with more than a decade of service in the public school system. Over the course of his career, he has held a variety of roles including After-School Care Site Manager, Instructional Assistant, Classroom Teacher, and currently serves as a Special Education Coordinator and Campus Testing Coordinator. Marcus has worked with students across all grade levels, from elementary through high school, giving him a well-rounded understanding of student development and diverse learning needs.
Marcus earned both his Bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies and his Master’s degree in Special Education with a concentration as an Instructional Specialist from Texas A&M University–San Antonio. He currently holds Texas teaching certifications in Early Childhood through 12th Grade Special Education and 4th through 8th Grade Mathematics.
His passion for education began while working as an after-school program site manager and AVID tutor, where he regularly supported students in developing stronger math skills. Seeing students gain confidence after mastering a concept that once seemed difficult remains one of the most rewarding parts of his work and continues to inspire his dedication to teaching mathematics and supporting diverse learners.
Marcus firmly believes that every student has the potential to succeed when given the right support, encouragement, and instructional approach. He often reminds his students of a favorite line from the film Ratatouille: “Anyone can math.” This philosophy reflects his commitment to focusing on students’ strengths and helping them build the confidence needed to overcome academic challenges.
Outside of education, Marcus enjoys spending time with his family, making barbecue, and bowling.