Jacquelyn R.
Jacquelyn is a Texas-certified educator with four years of middle school English Language Arts teaching experience, a master’s degree from Texas State University, and a demonstrated record of helping students improve their reading, writing, and academic performance. With additional professional experience in student support, targeted intervention, and individualized learning, Jacquelyn brings a knowledgeable, patient, and encouraging approach to helping students become more confident and independent learners.
Jacquelyn earned her Master of Arts in Sociology from Texas State University and her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a minor in Geography from The University of Texas at San Antonio. She also holds a Texas Standard Teaching Certificate in English Language Arts and Reading/Social Studies for grades 4–8, providing her with specialized preparation to support students during the important middle school years.
Jacquelyn has taught middle school English Language Arts in both Northside Independent School District and East Central Independent School District, including positions at Pease Middle School and Valor Middle School. Throughout her classroom teaching career, she has worked with students across a broad range of academic abilities, including gifted and advanced learners, students requiring targeted academic intervention, and students receiving collaborative or individualized instructional support.
Her classroom experience includes a strong record of measurable student achievement. During the 2023–2024 school year, Jacquelyn and her sixth-grade ELA team helped move their campus out of Turnaround status, achieving some of the highest and most improved STAAR results in the district. Through targeted instruction, consistent classroom routines, and close attention to individual learning needs, the team helped students make significant academic progress.
Jacquelyn continued that record of achievement during the 2025–2026 school year, when 86% of her seventh-grade English Language Arts students passed the STAAR assessment. This accomplishment reflects her ability to use student performance data to identify learning gaps, provide targeted instruction, monitor progress, and adjust teaching strategies to improve outcomes.
Reading comprehension, writing development, and middle school English Language Arts are among Jacquelyn’s greatest strengths. She helps students develop stronger vocabulary, grammar, reading fluency and comprehension strategies, essay organization, and written communication skills. Her instruction emphasizes understanding what students read, organizing their thoughts clearly, and expressing ideas effectively in both classroom assignments and assessments.
Jacquelyn is also particularly well suited for STAAR Reading Language Arts preparation for grades 6–8. Her firsthand classroom experience with Texas curriculum standards and state assessments allows her to help students identify areas of weakness, strengthen foundational literacy skills, and develop effective test-taking strategies. She focuses on building the underlying knowledge and confidence students need rather than relying solely on repetitive test practice.
One of Jacquelyn’s most valuable strengths is her experience supporting students with different learning and developmental needs. Beyond her classroom teaching, she has worked in student support, case management, and behavioral services, including direct support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autistic clients. She has also collaborated with special education professionals, counselors, social workers, and 504 teams to coordinate individualized student support.
Earlier in her career, Jacquelyn worked with Communities in Schools in Northside ISD, providing individualized support to students facing academic, behavioral, and social-emotional challenges. Her work involved helping students set goals, develop coping strategies, connect with appropriate resources, and work toward meaningful progress. These experiences strengthened her understanding of the importance of building positive relationships and addressing the individual needs that can affect a student’s ability to succeed academically.
Jacquelyn believes that effective teaching begins with understanding the student. She takes time to identify each learner’s strengths, challenges, and preferred learning approaches, then adapts instruction accordingly. She uses clear explanations, direct instruction, guided practice, and manageable steps to help students work through difficult concepts without becoming overwhelmed.
Her experience with targeted interventions and progress monitoring allows her to recognize when a student needs additional foundational support and when they are ready for more advanced challenges. Whether she is working with a struggling reader, a student who needs help organizing written responses, or an advanced learner seeking greater academic challenge, Jacquelyn strives to provide instruction at the appropriate level.
Jacquelyn also understands that academic confidence and emotional well-being often go hand in hand. She believes students learn best when they feel supported, respected, and comfortable asking questions. Her patient and relationship-centered approach helps students become more willing to participate, work through mistakes, and take ownership of their learning.
In addition to English Language Arts, Jacquelyn offers support in college essay writing, Sociology, study and test-taking strategies, and academic technology tools such as Google Docs, Google Slides, and Microsoft Office. Her academic background and professional experience provide a strong foundation for helping students organize information, communicate clearly, and develop effective academic work habits.
Outside of education, Jacquelyn enjoys reading, writing, spending time with family, and exploring her creative interests. Her personal appreciation for reading and writing complements her professional commitment to helping students strengthen their literacy and communication skills.
Above all, Jacquelyn is passionate about helping students recognize their abilities and achieve meaningful academic growth. Whether she is helping a middle school student improve reading comprehension, guiding a student through a challenging writing assignment, preparing for the STAAR assessment, or providing individualized academic support, her goal is to help every student become a more confident, capable, and independent learner.
Jennifer H.
Jennifer is an accomplished English educator with more than 17 years of high school classroom teaching experience, extensive expertise in Advanced Placement English, and a distinguished background in writing instruction and standardized test assessment. A Texas-certified Secondary English teacher with a master’s degree in English Literature, Jennifer specializes in helping middle school, high school, and college-bound students strengthen their reading, writing, critical thinking, and analytical skills.
In 2026, Jennifer received the Exemplary Teacher designation from the Texas Education Agency (TEA), recognizing her professional accomplishments as an educator. Throughout her career, she has developed a reputation for rigorous academic instruction, strong relationships with students, and a commitment to helping young people become more confident and capable readers, writers, and thinkers.
Jennifer earned her Bachelor of Arts in English and Sociology from Texas Christian University and her Master of Arts in English Literature from The University of Texas at Austin. She completed her teacher certification through The University of Texas at Dallas and holds Texas certification in Secondary English (grades 6–12), along with a Gifted and Talented supplemental certification.
Jennifer spent 17 years teaching high school English in Northside Independent School District, including nine years at Louis D. Brandeis High School and eight years at John Jay High School and its Science and Engineering Academy. Her teaching experience spans advanced freshman and sophomore English, Pre-AP coursework, junior-level rhetoric and composition, and senior-level literature and composition.
One of Jennifer’s greatest strengths is her extensive experience teaching AP English Language and Composition and AP English Literature and Composition. She has taught both courses for more than a decade, helping students develop the advanced reading, rhetorical analysis, literary interpretation, and essay-writing skills required for success in challenging college-level coursework. She has also taught dual-credit English classes and served in instructional leadership roles as a course-level lead.
Jennifer brings an additional advantage to AP preparation through her work with the College Board and Educational Testing Service (ETS). From 2016 through 2024, she served as a reader for both the AP English Language and AP English Literature examinations. She also worked as a scorer for the SAT and STAAR assessments.
This firsthand assessment experience gives Jennifer valuable insight into how student writing is evaluated, what distinguishes strong analytical responses, and how students can communicate their ideas more effectively under testing conditions. She can help students understand scoring expectations, develop well-supported arguments, and approach timed writing assignments with greater confidence.
Jennifer is particularly well suited for students preparing for AP English Language, AP English Literature, PSAT/SAT English, and ACT English. Her instruction emphasizes reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, rhetorical analysis, literary interpretation, essay organization, and effective writing strategies. She also supports students preparing for GED examinations and those who need additional help with middle school and high school English Language Arts.
Beyond test preparation, Jennifer offers extensive support in academic writing, college application essays, and graduate-level application essays. She helps students develop clear, compelling written responses that communicate their ideas, experiences, and goals effectively. Her background in literature and composition allows her to guide students through every stage of the writing process, from brainstorming and organization to revision and final editing.
Jennifer has also worked with students preparing for the transition to college. As an English instructor with UTSA’s TRIO/Upward Bound program, she taught high school juniors and seniors the vocabulary, critical reading, grammar, and writing skills necessary for success on the SAT and in college English courses.
Throughout her teaching career, Jennifer has been actively involved in curriculum development and instructional improvement. She participated in Northside ISD’s Pre-AP curriculum committee, helping develop English I and II coursework used throughout the district. She has also completed specialized professional development through AP workshops, AP Summer Institutes, and intensive writing instruction programs.
Jennifer’s experience extends beyond traditional high school classrooms. Earlier in her career, she worked with Girls Inc. of San Antonio, providing individualized educational support to pregnant and parenting students through SAISD’s Project MAS program. She also helped establish an educational program for children facing extraordinary circumstances through The Children’s Shelter, work that earned her recognition as part of an Employee of the Month and Employee of the Year award-winning team.
Jennifer believes that strong reading and writing skills are essential not only for academic achievement but also for effective communication, independent thinking, and lifelong learning. She works to help students understand challenging texts, develop thoughtful interpretations, organize their ideas, and express themselves with clarity and confidence.
Her experience teaching students at different academic levels allows her to adapt instruction to individual needs. Whether a student needs help strengthening foundational writing skills, mastering literary analysis, preparing for an AP examination, or developing a polished college admissions essay, Jennifer provides knowledgeable, structured, and encouraging support.
Jennifer has also remained actively involved in student enrichment throughout her career, serving as a UIL academic coach, Quiz Bowl coach, and book club sponsor. Her engaging personality and enthusiasm for learning have helped her build strong connections with students. She was even voted Most Humorous Teacher by seniors at John Jay’s Science and Engineering Academy.
And in one particularly memorable experience outside the classroom, Jennifer appeared as a contestant on Jeopardy! in 2015—a fitting accomplishment for an educator with a love of literature, language, and learning.
Above all, Jennifer is passionate about helping students become stronger, more confident communicators. Whether she is preparing a student for AP English, strengthening reading comprehension, improving essay-writing skills, or guiding a college application, her goal is to equip students with the knowledge, strategies, and confidence they need to succeed in the classroom and beyond.
Tyler B.
Tyler is an accomplished academic tutor and recent law school graduate who specializes in English, writing, reading comprehension, academic skills, and college readiness. With a Juris Doctor from Louisiana State University, a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication from Texas State University, and professional experience tutoring students across a wide range of ages and subjects, Tyler brings strong communication skills, analytical thinking, and an individualized approach to helping students succeed.
Tyler earned his Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication with a minor in Writing from Texas State University, where he was a six-time Dean’s List recipient and a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success. He continued his education at Louisiana State University, earning his Juris Doctor in May 2026. His academic achievements reflect a strong commitment to education, intellectual curiosity, and developing the communication and critical-thinking skills necessary for success in demanding academic environments.
While attending law school, Tyler expanded his educational experience by studying abroad at University Jean Moulin in Lyon, France. He also served as a mentor to incoming law students and international Master of Laws (LL.M.) students, helping them navigate the transition to law school and life in the United States. These experiences strengthened his ability to communicate with students from different backgrounds, provide practical guidance, and help others approach unfamiliar challenges with confidence.
Tyler’s passion for tutoring began during his undergraduate years at Texas State, when he worked with Club Z! In-Home Tutoring Services. In this role, he supported students ranging from elementary school through college age, providing individualized assistance in subjects including English, mathematics, and science. This experience helped him discover how rewarding it can be to work one-on-one with students, recognize their individual strengths and challenges, and help them make meaningful academic progress.
Writing and communication are among Tyler’s greatest strengths. His undergraduate studies in Mass Communication and Writing, combined with the rigorous reading, research, and analytical writing required in law school, have given him an extensive foundation in organizing ideas, developing persuasive arguments, interpreting complex texts, and communicating clearly.
Tyler has also applied these skills professionally through legal research, drafting, editing, and proofreading. His work as a law clerk has included preparing legal documents, researching complex issues, reviewing written materials for accuracy, and organizing detailed information. He has also worked as a research assistant at LSU, helping develop instructional materials and supporting academic research projects.
These experiences make Tyler particularly well suited for students who need help with English Language Arts, reading comprehension, literature, grammar, writing, research papers, technical writing, and college application essays. He can help students organize their thoughts, develop clear arguments, strengthen sentence structure, and communicate their ideas more effectively.
Tyler also offers support in college readiness and standardized test preparation, including SAT English and Math, ACT English and Math, LSAT preparation, and general test-taking strategies. His experience navigating undergraduate education and law school gives him firsthand insight into the academic expectations students encounter as they prepare for college and advanced studies.
Beyond his primary strengths in English and writing, Tyler provides tutoring across a broad range of elementary and middle school subjects, including foundational mathematics, Pre-Algebra, Algebra, general science, Social Studies, Geography, and U.S. History. He also supports students with STAAR preparation and general academic skill development.
Tyler understands that academic success often depends on more than simply knowing the material. Students must also develop effective study habits, learn how to approach challenging assignments, manage their time, and build confidence in their abilities. His tutoring approach emphasizes breaking difficult concepts into manageable steps, identifying areas that need additional practice, and helping students become more independent learners.
His experience working with students of different ages has taught him the importance of adapting instruction to each individual’s needs. Whether a student needs additional explanation, structured practice, help organizing an assignment, or encouragement to work through a difficult problem, Tyler strives to create a supportive environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and making progress.
Tyler particularly enjoys helping students strengthen their ability to think critically and communicate effectively. He believes these skills extend far beyond the classroom, preparing students for success in college, professional environments, and everyday life.
Outside of tutoring and his professional pursuits, Tyler enjoys outdoor activities, staying active, spending time with friends and family, watching movies, and listening to music. His diverse interests and approachable personality help him connect with students and make the learning experience more engaging.
Above all, Tyler is passionate about helping students recognize their potential and develop the skills necessary for long-term academic success. Whether he is guiding a student through a challenging writing assignment, helping prepare for the SAT or ACT, supporting foundational coursework, or assisting with a college application essay, Tyler’s goal is to help students become more confident, capable, and independent learners.
Jeremy M.
Jeremy is an experienced high school mathematics and engineering educator with a passion for making challenging STEM subjects understandable, engaging, and relevant to the real world. With classroom experience teaching Algebra, Geometry, and advanced mathematics, along with specialized instruction in Physics, robotics, and engineering, Jeremy brings a unique combination of academic knowledge, technical expertise, and hands-on experience to his students.
A San Antonio native, Jeremy attended Texas State University in San Marcos, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Sound Recording Technology and a Master’s degree in International Studies. His educational journey also included a year studying abroad in Jerusalem, Israel, broadening his perspective and appreciation for learning across different cultures and disciplines.
Jeremy holds Texas teaching credentials in Mathematics and Physics for grades 7–12, as well as Technology Education for grades 6–12. Since 2020, he has taught high school mathematics in Northside Independent School District, including Algebraic Reasoning, Algebra II, and Geometry. His classroom experience includes working with students across a wide range of academic abilities and learning needs, including English Language Learners, students receiving special education services, and students who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Jeremy’s expertise extends beyond mathematics into Physics and engineering education. He previously served as a Physics instructor for the Pre-Freshman Engineering Program hosted at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), where he taught college-bound high school students through classroom instruction and hands-on laboratory experiments. His lessons explored concepts such as electricity, force, motion, and the mathematical principles that explain how the physical world works.
In the summer of 2026, Jeremy expanded his STEM expertise through a Research Experience for Teachers program at Texas A&M University focused on machine learning. Building on that experience, he developed an innovative high school engineering curriculum introducing students to artificial intelligence and robotics. His students learn how to configure an AI program, transfer it to a VEX V5 classroom robot, and train the robot to recognize and pick up an object independently.
This work reflects Jeremy’s teaching philosophy: students develop a deeper understanding of mathematics and science when they can see how concepts are applied to real problems. Rather than focusing exclusively on formulas and procedures, he enjoys showing students how mathematics connects to technology, engineering, robotics, and the systems they encounter in everyday life.
Before entering the classroom, Jeremy developed extensive professional experience in technical and engineering-related environments. He worked with electrical and mechanical systems, audiovisual technology, and sophisticated animatronic equipment. In one particularly memorable role, he traveled throughout the United States and internationally installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting animatronic dinosaurs. These experiences required practical applications of electrical theory, mechanical systems, technical diagrams, and systematic problem-solving.
Jeremy brings that same analytical approach to tutoring. He helps students break complicated problems into manageable steps, identify where their understanding may be incomplete, and build the skills needed to solve problems independently. His goal is not simply to help students complete an assignment, but to develop the underlying mathematical reasoning and confidence that will serve them in more advanced courses.
Jeremy specializes in Pre-Algebra, Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, Physics, and calculus-based Physics C. He also offers introductory support in Python programming, along with engineering and robotics concepts.
His background makes him particularly well suited for middle school and high school students who need additional support in mathematics, students preparing for more advanced STEM coursework, and learners who benefit from seeing practical applications of abstract concepts. His experience in both traditional classroom instruction and hands-on engineering education allows him to adjust explanations and examples to suit different learning styles.
Jeremy understands that mathematics and physics can be intimidating, particularly when students begin to fall behind or struggle to connect one concept to the next. He takes a collaborative, encouraging approach, working alongside students to identify challenges and develop strategies that make difficult material more approachable.
As a classroom educator, Jeremy has also worked in collaborative learning environments with students who have a variety of instructional accommodations and support needs. This experience has reinforced the importance of patience, clear communication, flexibility, and meeting students at their individual level.
Above all, Jeremy genuinely enjoys teaching STEM and helping students discover what they are capable of accomplishing. Whether he is explaining an Algebra concept, working through a challenging Physics problem, or introducing a student to the possibilities of robotics and artificial intelligence, his goal is to make learning more understandable, practical, and rewarding.
Jeremy believes that with the right instruction, encouragement, and willingness to work through challenges together, students can develop the confidence and problem-solving skills necessary to succeed in even the most demanding STEM subjects.
Allison A.
Dr. Allison A, affectionately known as “Dr. Ali” by her students, is an accomplished biomedical scientist, STEM educator, and entrepreneur with an extraordinary background in scientific research and hands-on learning. With a Ph.D. in Microbiology and Immunology, years of professional experience conducting biomedical research for military and government programs, and a passion for making science and mathematics accessible to young learners, Allison brings a unique combination of advanced scientific expertise, creativity, and real-world experience to tutoring.
Allison earned her Ph.D. in Microbiology and Immunology from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, a Master of Business Administration from the University of Texas at San Antonio, and a Bachelor of Arts in Microbiology from the University of Kansas. During her graduate studies, she also served as a teaching assistant for medical and dental students, discovering how rewarding it could be to help others understand complex scientific concepts.
Following her doctoral studies, Allison built an extensive career as a biomedical research scientist, working with organizations supporting the U.S. Air Force, Navy, Army, and federal research programs. Her professional research has spanned microbiology, immunology, infectious diseases, molecular biology, respiratory infections, vaccine research, and military medicine. She has designed scientific experiments, analyzed complex data, contributed to peer-reviewed scientific publications, and worked alongside medical researchers and scientific professionals on challenging real-world problems.
Despite her highly technical background, Allison’s approach to teaching is refreshingly approachable. She believes that science and mathematics should inspire curiosity rather than intimidation and that students learn best when they are actively engaged in discovering how things work.
When the pandemic prompted Allison to begin homeschooling her own children, she discovered a new passion for creating meaningful, hands-on educational experiences. That experience eventually inspired her to establish San Antonio Techie Tots, a STEM enrichment business serving local homeschool families. Through interactive classes, camps, and educational activities, Allison has developed original STEM curricula that incorporate experiments, dissections, creative projects, field trips, early coding concepts, and collaborative learning.
Her experience working with younger students has reinforced her belief that learning can take many forms. Sometimes the best way to understand a scientific concept is through a hands-on experiment, a game, a model, or a project that allows students to explore and discover the answer for themselves. Allison strives to make even challenging material approachable by connecting academic concepts to experiences students can understand and enjoy.
Allison offers tutoring across a broad range of mathematics and science subjects, including Pre-Algebra, Algebra I & II, Geometry, Pre-Calculus, Biology, AP Biology, Cell Biology, Genetics, Anatomy, Pathophysiology, Physics, Physical Science, Earth Science, Environmental Science, Geology, Animal Science, and Space Science.
Her greatest academic strengths are in the biological and biomedical sciences, where her doctoral education and professional research experience provide an exceptionally deep foundation. She is particularly well suited for students studying Biology, AP Biology, Genetics, Anatomy, and other advanced life sciences, while also offering strong support in foundational mathematics and general science.
One of Allison’s greatest strengths is her ability to connect advanced scientific knowledge with age-appropriate instruction. Having taught university-level learners and developed STEM enrichment programs for children as young as four, she understands the importance of adapting explanations, activities, and expectations to the student’s developmental level and individual learning needs.
Allison also emphasizes the importance of building meaningful relationships with her students. She believes that children are more willing to ask questions, try unfamiliar approaches, and challenge themselves when they feel comfortable and supported. Her tutoring style is interactive, encouraging, and designed to build confidence alongside academic understanding.
Families appreciate Allison’s enthusiasm, creativity, and ability to bring science to life. Whether she is helping a younger student discover the excitement of scientific exploration, guiding a middle school student through foundational math and science, or supporting a high school student in advanced Biology, Allison’s goal is to help students develop genuine understanding, curiosity, and independence.
Outside of her professional work, Allison enjoys spending time with her family and continuing to explore new ways to make STEM education engaging. She is also the kind of person who took Calculus III in college simply because she thought it would be fun—a reflection of the curiosity and enthusiasm for learning that she hopes to share with every student.
Ultimately, Dr. Ali wants students to recognize that science and math don’t have to be a chore or a bore. With the right guidance, encouragement, and a little creativity, even challenging subjects can become exciting opportunities for discovery.
Perla H.
Perla is a bilingual, Texas-certified elementary educator with more than 10 years of experience helping students develop strong academic foundations in both English and Spanish. With extensive experience in bilingual elementary classrooms, tutoring, literacy instruction, and language assessment, Perla brings a patient and highly individualized approach to helping young learners strengthen skills, close learning gaps, and build confidence.
Perla holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood–4th Grade Education with a Bilingual Supplemental Certification and is certified by the State of Texas in both teaching and bilingual education. She is fluent in English and Spanish and has spent much of her career working with students whose academic success depends not only on mastering grade-level content but also on developing stronger language and communication skills.
Perla’s classroom experience includes many years as a bilingual elementary teacher, first at Brewer Elementary and later at Sarah King Elementary. In these roles, she provided bilingual instruction while supporting students’ language development and achievement across core elementary subjects. Her experience has given her a strong understanding of how foundational skills in reading, writing, language, and mathematics develop during the elementary years.
More recently, Perla has provided individualized tutoring to elementary students in reading, literacy, and foundational academic skills. She has also taught literacy and elementary-level academic skills to adult learners, giving her valuable experience working with students who may have gaps in foundational knowledge or need concepts presented in a different way before they begin to click.
Perla currently works with San Antonio ISD as a PRELAS Language Survey Tester, administering language-proficiency assessments used for student placement and ESL services. This experience has further strengthened her ability to evaluate students’ language development, recognize individual areas of need, and understand how language proficiency can affect academic performance across subjects.
Perla specializes in elementary academics across grades K–5, including reading, writing, literacy, mathematics, and other core subjects, as well as ESL and bilingual academic support. Her background makes her particularly well suited for English Language Learners and bilingual students who may need additional support developing academic skills while simultaneously strengthening English-language proficiency.
One of Perla’s greatest strengths is her ability to meet students where they are. She has extensive experience with differentiated instruction, student assessment, small-group teaching, lesson planning, and family communication and understands that children do not all learn at the same pace or in the same way.
Her tutoring style is patient, structured, and encouraging. Perla takes time to understand each student’s individual strengths and areas of difficulty and then adjusts instruction to make learning approachable and achievable. She believes children make their greatest progress when they feel comfortable asking questions, recognize their own improvement, and know that their teacher genuinely believes in their ability to succeed.
Families appreciate Perla’s warmth, bilingual communication skills, and extensive experience with elementary learners. Whether she is helping a child strengthen reading skills, close a gap in foundational math, improve English-language proficiency, or simply regain confidence in school, Perla’s goal is to help each student experience meaningful academic growth while developing stronger and more independent learning skills.
Above all, Perla believes that every child can grow with the right combination of guidance, consistency, individualized instruction, and encouragement. She looks forward to building positive relationships with students and families while helping young learners become more confident and successful in the classroom.
Nancy G.
Nancy is a certified elementary educator with more than 16 years of teaching and tutoring experience helping students build strong academic foundations, greater confidence, and a positive attitude toward learning. Throughout her career, Nancy has taught students across grades K–8 in both public and private school settings, with particular expertise in elementary reading, English Language Arts, writing, and comprehensive elementary academic support.
Nancy earned her Bachelor of Science in Speech Communications from the University of Texas at Austin and completed her Elementary Education teaching certification through the University of Texas at San Antonio, with certification for grades 1–8.Most recently, Nancy spent six years at Cornerstone Christian Schools in San Antonio, first as a long-term substitute teacher and then as a full-time Kindergarten and first-grade classroom teacher. In these roles, she provided instruction across Reading, Math, Science, Social Studies, and Bible while using small-group instruction, hands-on activities, educational technology, and assessment data to meet the needs of individual students.
Reading instruction is a particular passion for Nancy. She is an advocate of the Science of Reading and incorporates evidence-based literacy strategies into her work with developing readers. She understands that strong reading skills are built systematically and uses targeted instruction to help students strengthen the foundational skills, comprehension, vocabulary, and confidence necessary to become more successful readers. Her recent classroom experience specifically included implementing Science of Reading strategies with Kindergarten and first-grade students.
Nancy also brings extensive experience with upper-elementary students. As a third- and fourth-grade teacher in Northside ISD, she taught Reading, Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies in both self-contained and collaborative classrooms. She differentiated instruction for students with varying academic needs, incorporated educational technology into daily lessons, supported ESL students, and prepared students for STAAR testing.Her experience working with diverse learners is another important strength. Nancy has served in special-education collaborative settings and has worked alongside teachers, specialists, and families to provide individualized academic support. She understands that students do not all learn at the same pace or in the same way and adapts instruction based on each child’s current skills, learning style, and academic needs.
Nancy provides tutoring across all elementary subjects, including Reading, English Language Arts, writing, handwriting, Math, Science, and Social Studies. She can also support middle school Language Arts, Physical Science, and Space Science and provides targeted preparation for 3rd–5th grade STAAR Reading.
Her teaching style is warm, encouraging, and hands-on. Nancy believes students learn best when they are actively involved rather than simply listening to an explanation. She uses guided practice, discussion, visual supports, and interactive activities to make lessons more meaningful while adjusting instruction to the individual student.
Families appreciate Nancy’s combination of experience, patience, and versatility. Because she has spent so much of her career in self-contained elementary classrooms, she understands how skills across subjects are interconnected. A reading difficulty can affect science and social studies; weak writing skills can make it difficult for a student to demonstrate what they know; and a loss of confidence in one subject can begin affecting a child’s entire school experience.
Nancy works to identify those connections and provide support that strengthens the whole learner.
Whether she is helping a beginning reader develop stronger foundational skills, preparing an elementary student for STAAR, strengthening writing and comprehension, or providing ongoing support across several subjects, Nancy’s goal is to help each student experience meaningful progress while becoming a more confident and independent learner.
Anita M.
Anita is a veteran Texas educator, curriculum specialist, teacher trainer, and academic tutor with decades of experience helping students and educators achieve greater success. Her extensive career has included classroom teaching, bilingual and ESL instruction, curriculum development, educational assessment, teacher coaching, educational publishing, and individualized tutoring. Throughout each of these roles, Anita has remained focused on one central goal: identifying what a learner needs and providing instruction in a way that allows that individual to succeed.
A San Antonio native and the valedictorian of her high school class, Anita earned her Bachelor’s degree from Our Lady of the Lake University with a double major in English and Spanish, graduating with a 3.89 GPA. She later earned her Master’s degree in Bilingual/Bicultural Studies from the University of Texas at San Antonio, also with a 3.89 GPA. Anita holds Texas teaching certifications in English and Spanish as well as ESL certification.
Anita began her career teaching middle and high school students in San Antonio ISD and Edgewood ISD. Her interest in curriculum, assessment, and differentiated instruction eventually led to a remarkable career beyond her own classroom, working with educators and schools throughout the country. She has held educational leadership, curriculum, assessment, and training positions with organizations including Pearson Education, CTB/McGraw-Hill, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, the Education Service Center Region XX, and the Intercultural Development Research Association (IDRA).
For many years, Anita trained teachers in effective instructional practices, curriculum implementation, assessment interpretation, test-taking strategies, ESL methodology, and ways to differentiate instruction for students with different academic needs. She has presented to both small groups and large audiences at state and national conferences and has designed and delivered professional development programs for educators.
Anita also served as an ELL Secondary Transition Coach with Northside ISD, where she modeled lessons, coached teachers on strategies for developing students’ academic language, created professional development, and supported differentiated instruction for English Language Learners. Her graduate education and extensive professional experience in bilingual and ESL instruction have given her a particularly strong understanding of how language development affects reading, writing, comprehension, and learning across subjects.
Today, Anita brings this wealth of experience directly to individual students. She specializes in English, English Language Arts, reading, writing, college essay development, elementary academic support, STAAR preparation, and test-taking skills. Her extensive background in assessment is especially valuable when working one-on-one: Anita looks carefully at a student’s current skills, identifies specific areas that need improvement, and then adjusts instruction accordingly.
Her tutoring experience demonstrates the effectiveness of this individualized approach. Anita has provided elementary reading and writing intervention, STAAR preparation, grade-level readiness support, and home-based academic coaching. In one documented example, she helped a first-grade reader progress from Level C to Level I, while other tutoring work included analyzing Texas TEKS and creating individualized instructional materials to prepare students for the next grade level.
Anita’s expertise in STAAR and test-taking skills is another significant strength. In addition to directly tutoring elementary students in STAAR reading and writing strategies, she spent many years working professionally in educational assessment, including a decade with CTB/McGraw-Hill as an Assessment Specialist and later Senior Product Manager. Her background allows her to help students understand both the academic content being tested and the strategies necessary to approach assessments more confidently and effectively.
Families appreciate Anita’s ability to combine decades of educational expertise with highly individualized, encouraging instruction. She understands that students do not all process information in the same way, and she does not rely on a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, she identifies each student’s strengths and areas of need, adapts instruction accordingly, monitors progress, and helps families see the academic growth taking place over time.
Even in retirement, education remains an important part of Anita’s life. She enjoys teaching third-grade Catechism students preparing for First Communion and creating presentations for her church’s Rosary Prayer Group. Outside of teaching, she enjoys gardening, browsing for antiques, tackling DIY projects, and spending time with her grandchildren.
After a career devoted to students, teachers, curriculum, and assessment, Anita continues to find fulfillment in helping individual learners make progress. Her goal is not simply to help students complete assignments or prepare for the next test, but to give them the skills, strategies, and confidence they need to become stronger and more successful learners.
Jose P.
Jose. “Alex” P. is a linguistics student, tutor, and educator with a passion for language, the humanities, and helping students become more confident and engaged learners. Alex is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics in Global and Local Communities at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), with particular interest in the educational applications of linguistics and bilingual and ESL instruction.
Alex has gained experience working with students in several different educational settings, including private tutoring, in-class academic support, and K–12 substitute teaching. As a freelance tutor, Alex works directly with students and families to improve grades, strengthen content retention, assist with homework, and provide additional learning resources students can use outside of tutoring sessions.
Alex also worked as an in-class tutor with Woodlawn Academy in San Antonio ISD, supporting students both individually and in small groups while collaborating with classroom teachers and providing instruction aligned with Texas educational standards. Previous experience as a K–12 substitute teacher provided additional exposure to students across a wide range of ages, subjects, abilities, and classroom environments.
Language and communication are particular strengths for Alex. Their study of linguistics provides a valuable foundation for understanding how language works and how students acquire reading, writing, and second-language skills. Alex communicates comfortably with both Spanish- and French-speaking individuals and provides tutoring in conversational Spanish, middle and high school Spanish, and middle and high school French, as well as English and ESL.
Alex particularly enjoys the humanities and works with students in English, English Language Arts, reading, writing, social studies, U.S. History, World History, and AP World History. Their interest in language, culture, and history allows Alex to help students make connections between subjects rather than treating each course as an isolated collection of facts.
Alex also offers broad academic support for elementary students across core subjects and works with middle and high school students in Pre-Algebra, Algebra I & II, Geometry, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, Biology, and Environmental Science. This versatility can make Alex an especially good fit for families looking for one tutor who can help a student manage assignments and strengthen skills across several subjects.
In addition to subject-specific instruction, Alex supports students with ADHD-related academic skills, handwriting, study and organizational strategies, and STAAR preparation. Their approach emphasizes building a comfortable tutoring relationship where students feel free to ask questions, work through mistakes, and develop greater ownership of their learning.
Alex believes that effective tutoring should do more than help a student finish tonight’s homework. By using creative activities, targeted practice, and individualized explanations, they strive to improve both immediate academic performance and long-term understanding. Their goal is to help students recognize that challenging material becomes much more manageable when it is presented in a way that connects with how they learn.
Outside of academics, Alex has a strong interest in theater and currently participates in UTSA Student Theater, following earlier involvement with the International Thespian Society. This background complements their interests in language and communication and brings creativity and an engaging personality to their work with students.
Above all, Alex strives to champion a genuine love of learning while giving students the individualized academic support they need to become more confident, capable, and independent learners.
Giani C.
Giani is a highly experienced literacy specialist, Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT), Educational Diagnostician, and educator with more than 20 years of teaching, coaching, and tutoring experience. Throughout her career, Giani has been guided by one fundamental belief: every student learns differently, and effective instruction begins with understanding how an individual child thinks, processes information, and connects with learning.
Giani earned her Bachelor’s degree in Applied Learning and Development from the University of Texas at Austin and her Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Texas at Arlington. She continued her advanced training through Midwestern State University to become an Educational Diagnostician, developing specialized expertise in evaluating how students learn and understanding how learning differences can affect academic performance.
Her credentials in literacy instruction are particularly extensive. Giani is a Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT) and holds Texas certifications as a Reading Specialist, Master Reading Teacher, Educational Diagnostician, and Elementary Generalist, along with additional endorsements in English as a Second Language and Gifted and Talented education. She has also received specialized training in structured literacy programs including Reading by Design, Basic Language Skills, and JET, as well as Orton-Gillingham-based instruction.
This combination of classroom experience, diagnostic expertise, and specialized literacy training makes Giani particularly effective with students who struggle with dyslexia, decoding, phonics, spelling, fluency, reading comprehension, and written language. Rather than simply helping students compensate for areas of difficulty, Giani works systematically to strengthen the underlying skills necessary to become more capable and confident readers and writers.
At the same time, Giani’s expertise extends far beyond reading intervention. She works with students across the academic spectrum, from elementary learners developing foundational literacy skills to middle and high school students tackling sophisticated reading and writing assignments. Her tutoring areas include elementary academics, middle school Language Arts, AP English, writing, spelling, college essay writing, and English preparation for the SAT and ACT, as well as comprehensive STAAR preparation.
One of Giani’s greatest strengths is her ability to understand why a student may be struggling. Her background as an Educational Diagnostician gives her a valuable perspective when working with students who have learning differences or complicated academic histories. She can identify patterns in how students approach reading and writing and then adapt instruction to address individual needs while building on existing strengths.
For advanced students, Giani applies that same analytical approach to higher-level literacy skills. Whether a student is learning to evaluate an author’s argument, develop a thesis, analyze rhetoric, organize an essay, or refine a college application essay, she helps students break complex language tasks into understandable components and then put those pieces together effectively.
Families appreciate Giani’s ability to combine deep professional expertise with patient, individualized instruction. She understands that students who have struggled academically may arrive at tutoring already believing they are “bad at reading” or “not good at English.” Giani works to change that experience by providing instruction at the appropriate level, recognizing progress, and giving students concrete strategies that allow them to experience success for themselves.
Above all, Giani is passionate about helping students discover the power—and ideally even the enjoyment—of reading. Whether she is teaching phonics to a beginning reader, providing structured literacy intervention for a student with dyslexia, strengthening a middle schooler’s writing, or helping an advanced high school student master rhetorical analysis, her goal is to build a strong and lasting foundation for how students read, write, communicate, and think.
Outside of education, Giani is an enthusiastic reader herself, with a particular fondness for urban fantasy novels. She enjoys sharing her love of books with students—while fully recognizing that convincing every student to share her enthusiasm for urban fantasy may be one teaching challenge even she can’t solve.