Ami Z

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I grew up in the Midwest and spent most of my childhood in a Chicago suburb. For my undergraduate degree, I went to school at St. Norbert College in De Pere, Wisconsin and majored in Education with a minor in Social Studies. I have my Master’s Degree in TESOL (Teaching English as a Second/Other Language) from GCU.

I have always had a passion for helping others, especially when it comes to schoolwork. I babysat a lot growing up and often used this experience to help children with homework and learning strategies they can use in the future. I taught 2nd grade for one year and taught 1st grade for three years. I have taught summer school with grades ranging from K-8. I currently work as an ELL Interventionist for grades K-3 and multiple years of tutoring experience in grades K-4.

In the classroom, I teach using small group instruction, which is similar to a smaller tutoring group within the classroom. I strongly believe that each student learns differently and uses different approaches as needed. My goal is to teach kids’ strengths and help reinforce their weaknesses to build self-awareness, confidence, and a positive relationship with learning. Learning begins by creating an environment where children feel comfortable, respected, confident, and safe.

I love to stay busy with teaching, tutoring, and learning, but I also like to spend my free time enjoying the outdoors. I played soccer through college, and went on to coach soccer for a couple of years in the Midwest. I have found a recent interest in new sports and activities such as: volleyball, kickboxing, and hiking. My absolute favorite season is fall, which sounds a little bit funny after moving to a state where it’s summer year round! I also love to travel and had the incredible opportunity to study abroad in Rome during college. I love traveling to new places and meeting new people because everyone has a story to tell.

Here at Peak Academics, I support learners in Pre-K through 4nd grade. I can help guide children who need extra support or enrichment in math, reading/writing, executive functions, and innovation. I love learning new things and building relationships with families.

TESTIMONIAL:

“Ami has been such a great fit for both of my boys-- each with different personalities and learning strengths/weaknesses. She is super knowledgeable and knew within the first couple sessions just how best to get through to each kid and help them with their learning. My youngest can often get intimidated with new people/faces but he took to Ami right away-- she has a very calm and gentle presence to her which I think goes a long way to helping ease anxiety around school/homework/learning. Both my kids have made SO much progress since starting with Ami and it's shown in their confidence levels, which trickles into so many areas in their lives.”

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Aren D

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I grew up in Chandler, Arizona and attended Arizona State University where I graduated with a  Bachelor of Arts in Educational Studies in 2016.  After two years of being in the workforce as an academic counselor, I needed a more fulfilling career.  I decided to go back to ASU for my Masters. In 2019 I graduated with a Masters in Special Education / Elementary Education and am dual certified to teach both. I am proud to share that I am a first generation college graduate and can’t wait to share my passion with you! 

I have been a K-5 special education resource teacher since 2019 and have taught summer school with grades K-6. I have 10 years of classroom and tutoring experience. My teaching and tutoring experience primarily consists of elementary reading, elementary writing, elementary math, social emotional learning, behavior management, and executive functioning skills. 

Being an educator is more than just teaching academics. I love to connect with my students by understanding them as a person. It is important to build a relationship with trust to ensure students feel respected, loved, supported, and safe. Only then can learning truly take place. Similarly to my relationship with students, my relationship with parents is also a priority. I take pride in my ability to be available to parents with any questions or concerns. I believe in open communication with my families, and I want my parents to know we are a team. 

A little about me - my friends and family are very important to me. There is nothing I wouldn’t do for my loved ones! I am a dog mom to a 1 year old golden retriever named Leo and a 5 year old mini dachshund named Olly :). I love to travel and learn about different cultures, you must visit Positano, Italy! If I wasn’t an educator, I would have pursued a career in Aesthetics or fashion. On a typical weekend you can find me trying out a new restaurant, playing with my pups, and ending my day watching a movie on the couch! 

At Peak Academics I offer support services for students in grades K-6 in reading, writing, math, executive functioning, and self- regulation.

TESTIMONIAL:

"My husband and I are so thankful that Aren and Peak Academics have come into our lives.  Aren has such an incredible, patient, positive way with children!  She has worked with my two older boys for a year now.  They respond so well to her and she makes all of the learning fun!  I walk by and they are so engaged, it is such a wonderful thing to watch and hear.  They have made so much progress with her that has shown up in reading levels, test scores, and comprehension when reading a story.  We are incredibly grateful for Aren's expertise, knowledge, creativity, and kindness.  Her communication, flexibility, and always on-time nature is crucial to a busy mom managing four children's schedules!"

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Angelica S

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I was born and raised in Des Moines, Iowa and attended Iowa State University, where I got my Bachelors Degree in Sociology. After college graduation I moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota where I began my teaching career and attended graduate school at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. There I earned my Masters Degree in K-8 Education. 

I have always loved working with students and knew from a young age that it was something I was interested in incorporating into my career as an adult. In high school I was a student tutor who worked with the ELL population at my school. As I went on to college I continued my work in education and became a Tutor Counselor where I was able to work with high school students in a college readiness program. I also spent time tutoring elementary students at the local elementary in my town, as well as volunteering at the after school program. I have been an elementary school teacher since 2019 and now also tutor Phoenix area elementary and middle students for Peak Academics.

Building relationships with all stakeholders is something I really value in education. I think it is super important to be able to connect with not only the students I engage with but also with their families. I truly believe it takes a village to create a pathway for success for students and I am intentional about the way I build connections. I get to know the students I am working with and try to incorporate their interest into my lessons to make them more engaging. 

Outside of the classroom my other interests include sports, shopping and family. I grew up playing sports and continued to play soccer throughout college. I am a huge fan of all sports and enjoy being active. My family is also super important to me. I have two older sisters and a younger brother who I am very close to even though they do not live near. Whenever I have free time, I also love shopping!

For Peak, I offer academic tutoring and executive functions support for elementary and middle school students.

Testimonial:

Coming soon…

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Anna-Lisa K

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I am a homegrown Phoenix native and have watched it grow from a small city to a metropolis. I am an athlete and a ‘mathlete’. I attended ASU for my BAE in elementary education with an emphasis in computer education and math. I received my MAE from NAU in Educational Leadership, and last, I went back to ASU for a MAE in Computer-Based Education. Most recently, I have attended math education institutes at Cal-Berkeley’s College of Mathematics.

Recently retired, I taught and/or coached for 30 years all around the Valley--everything from computer programming, keyboarding, computer applications, reading and math to swimming, softball, and volleyball--and all at the junior high level. I never turn down an opportunity to help someone increase their learning, whether it be reading, writing, math, or playing a sport. I have been informally tutoring students all my life, but have been professionally tutoring middle school math, Algebra 1 and Geometry for the past several years.

I like to build on a student’s own knowledge about math and show them how having a growth mindset can greatly improve their understanding and performance in math. I acknowledge student’s frustration and anxiety about math and want to take what they know about it to create their own understanding, whether it is by using manipulatives, movement, videos, games, or presentations. The biggest takeaway I want students to gain is working towards understanding why math works--not just that it works.

Besides expanding my knowledge of math in my spare time, I am physically active--playing volleyball, SCUBA diving, skiing, and working out in my spare time. I like to hike and ride around the country with my husband, Jeff. I have spent my entire life in Arizona, and now being retired, I get to travel around the country. Some places I have travelled to outside of the US are Ireland, Estonia, Canada, and Mexico.

I love to help with math, but I can also offer support with middle school writing, general homework support, and executive functioning skills.

Testimonial:

“Anna-Lisa is both reliable and flexible, willing to work around and accommodate intense sports schedules. Her approach is clear and my daughter received the help she needed to resolve questions and work through challenges related to mastering algebra.”

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Brandi R

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

Born and raised in the Phoenix area, Arizona has always been home to me. My family and I lived in Flagstaff while I attended Northern Arizona University, where I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education: English and Master’s degree in Rhetoric & Teaching of Writing. Since then, I have been constantly engaged in a variety of professional development opportunities and countless leadership roles. I am passionate about teaching because I am committed to helping all students see themselves as capable learners who are able to achieve incredible growth with the right supports in place.

Over the last 10 years, I have taught high school English and college writing to over 2,000 students, both virtually and in-person. This has included ELA courses of almost every kind, including grade-level/regular, Honors, Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, Dual Credit, Creative Writing, and Journalism/Digital Media Communications. I have also specialized in serving students with IEP, 504, and English language learner backgrounds. I have tutored students in grades 3 and above and enjoy all age groups.

I believe that learning happens best when students feel a strong sense of love, compassion, and care from the educators who work with them. To that end, I always approach my students with their overall well-being as a top priority, because their academic gains are dramatically improved with both priorities working together. When a student’s emotional needs are met and it is evident that the instructor genuinely cares, relationships create a far more effective space for growth. Writing takes a great deal of vulnerability and risk - to make mistakes and be receptive to feedback - which happens when trust is established.

As someone who has dedicated her entire professional life to teaching writing, I am equally passionate about my own writing. I am currently writing a creative nonfiction book on healing emotionally, and I am always reading something new (98% of it being nonfiction, because I love learning new things on a daily basis). At any given moment, I have at least 3+ current personal and professional development programs I’m engaged in. Right now, those are Toastmasters for strengthening my public speaking skills, a year-long business development program for entrepreneurs, and a two-year program for continuing to refine and improve my skills as an educator based on the most current research. When I’m not actively learning something new, I’m playing with my kids, listening to music, traveling, making a cup of coffee, and spending time with family and friends.

For Peak Academics, I offer services for students of all ages in English, general homework and executive functions support, and creative writing. 

Testimonial:

“Brandi has been a god-send for my two kids! We started utilizing her ELA skills with my middle school aged daughter, then decided to have her work with my older son. In a matter of months, she’s been able to transform their ability to analyze and annotate text, and to find a deeper meaning in what they are reading. Brandi goes above and beyond what’s asked of her and handles all of my constant scheduling changes with grace and a smile. She has hands down been the biggest blessing for my kids. They are more confident readers, and their test scores have improved! Oh, and Brandi is also excellent with test prep! She was able to take extremely complex scientific information and break it down into something my daughter could easily understand. The end result was an A on that test! Whether it’s improved test scores, a more confident reader, or simply if a challenge is needed, Brandi is the tutor for you! She is patient, kind and truly has you and your child’s best interest at heart. Her follow up emails after each session might be my favorite part! As parents, they give us such a good sense of how our kids are progressing and any struggles they may be facing. Do yourself a favor and hire her today! “

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Brian S

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I completed my undergraduate work at the Pennsylvania State University, and added 44 graduate credit hours to that. I spent several years as a middle school English/Language Arts teacher, public speaking/debate teacher, and one year as a middle school social studies teacher. In recent years, I have transitioned from a full-time classroom teacher to instructional support teacher, mindfulness coach, yoga master, and Tai Chi and KiGong instructor. Some of the mindfulness and mindful movement courses I have taken include: Brain Management Training, Dahn Master Course, Energy Healing Course, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, GwangMyung energy training, among others.

I work with both students and adults in mindfulness and mindful movements, striving for results that will quiet/cool the brain, warm/strengthen the core, and rebalance energy inside. This allows for better individual focus and provides room for more effective learning. Health and peace of mind go hand in hand with all forms of learning, including academic learning!

I look at an individual, assess where the individual is, provide a direction forward, and invite the student to move forward, building self-confidence and drive in the process. I help the student discover the key that unlocks learning and makes it adventurous, meaningful and creative. My motto: "Why not enjoy learning and make it your own?!"  (No one learns exactly like another person.)  

I love reading, writing, creating stories, engaging in public speaking, and showing others how to relax and connect inside. I love dogs and being in nature!   

I tutor individual students and small groups--with English being my area of expertise.  I love working with history, social studies, basic Spanish, elementary math, and science as well.  I offer mindfulness and related movements that quiet the brain, calm the heart, and increase focus / well-being, too.    

Testimonial:

“Brian began tutoring my son this school year. Brian is enthusiastic, highly motivated, and has excellent communication--both verbal and written--with students. He explains and demonstrates learning strategies clearly. His communication skills have inspired my son to put forth more effort in his studies, and helped him to be better organized and self-motivated. Brian is patient and ensures that all my son's work is completed. Brian always checks for knowledge, clarity, and understanding. We are fortunate to have him as a tutor, and have been very pleased with the results. My son's grades have improved, his behavior is better, and his approach to learning is stronger.“ 

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Courtney T

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I’m an Arizona native and don’t see myself living anywhere else! I attended The University of Arizona, where I received my Bachelor’s degree in Special Education, Mild-Moderate. After teaching for two years, I decided I wanted to continue my education and passion for working with kids with disabilities. I recently graduated from Northern Arizona University with my Doctorate in Occupational Therapy. 

After graduating from The University of Arizona in 2019, I worked as a 7th & 8th grade Special Education English Resource and Study Skills teacher for two years. Over the past decade, I have had the opportunity to work with a wide range of ages and disabilities, elementary through high school, through babysitting, clinical work, and tutoring. I have been providing one-on-one tutoring since 2022, both in executive functions coaching and academic tutoring!

The way I connect best with students is through building relationships of trust. I enjoy giving students an insight into my own life and activities while seeking out their interests. As an educator, I believe students can reach their greatest potential and more through a loving, supportive environment. My calm demeanor and ability to incorporate student’s interests into teaching allow me to connect with my students and get them fully engaged in their work.

When I’m not working, I’m hanging out with friends, family, or my cute french bulldog! I have 3 other siblings who also live in Arizona. I love being active and trying out new workout spots. Lastly, I love taking trips to the beach and going to music festivals with friends!

Through Peak, I am happy to offer executive functioning coaching and academic tutoring services for students of any age.

Testimonial:

“Courtney has been an absolute game-changer for my daughter! We are so excited to be with her again for another year of coaching.

Courtney is patient, kind, understanding, encouraging, and has a steadfast and unwavering belief in my child’s abilities to be successful. She celebrates all of the wins, large or small.

I don’t know that there is a testimonial stronger than the words directly from my daughter. She said, ‘If I didn't have Courtney this past quarter, I don't know what would have happened. I think I probably would have failed all of my classes and I don't even know if I would still be in school.’

What a turnaround it’s been! I'm so thankful that we found Peak Academics, and extra thankful that my (previously) struggling high-schooler was matched with Courtney, and is now on the road to success.”

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Diane C

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. Yes, I do still cheer for the Chicago Cubs. I attended the University of Arizona in Tucson. There I graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration majoring in Marketing in 1980. While still living in Tucson, I began a career in the newspaper industry as an advertising account executive. My husband and I relocated to Northridge, California in 1987 where I continued my career with major newspapers in this region. After experiencing the Northridge 1994 earthquake, we decided to head back to Arizona in 1997. We made our home in Scottsdale and have been living here in the same house for 27 years. I was hired as an account executive for a Phoenix newspaper but realized after 15 years in this industry there was something more that I needed to do. In the fall of 1999, I applied to ASU and earned a post baccalaureate in elementary education K-8 in spring 2002. While attending college, I was working as a one-on-one paraprofessional in a self-contained special education classroom for 7th grade students. It was at this moment that I realized this is what I was meant to do - working with and educating children.

After I graduated from ASU, I was hired as a 4th grade teacher in 2002 at a public school in the central Phoenix area. It was here that I established my home away from home for 20 years where there was a very strong parent community. My love for learning and teaching was one of the most fulfilling times in my life. I believe that a great learning experience for my students is to connect with them by being responsive to their interests, abilities, and understandings. I find great satisfaction in seeing students succeed and grow in self-confidence and to maintain a growth mindset. Working at an IB (International Baccalaureate) school provided me the opportunity to nurture and encourage students to wonder, question and take action. This inquiry based learning offered a curriculum that focused on the development of students’ intellectual, social, emotional, and physical well-being. I have been trained in SEL and practiced it during my tenure at this school. I attended professional training in teaching the gifted cluster program and taught these classes for over 5 years. I currently remain dedicated to children and their potential as I continue to work in the capacity as a guest teacher at the district I worked for. I retired from a full-time teaching position in May of 2022 and now enjoy working one-on-one with students in a tutoring setting. .

I have been married for 39 years and we have two adult daughters and four grandkids. I love animals, nature and science. Staying fit and eating healthy is very important to me. Reading and travel are two things I want to do more of. I enjoy spending time with my two grandsons who live here in Phoenix.

For Peak Academics, I offer study skills, general support, subject tutoring and executive functions for elementary school grades 2-4 in reading, writing, and math.

TESTIMONIAL:

Coming soon…

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Hannah C

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I received a B.A in Management in 2006 and a M.A in Teaching in 2011. I moved to Arizona in 2012 and have taught in public schools ever since. 

I have taught a variety of grades from Pre-K and Kindergarten to middle school and special education. I have also taught classes to K-8 students on social and emotional learning. I have tutored for many years for both primary and secondary students.

I believe that a great learning experience for my students begins with a great student-teacher relationship built on mutual respect and trust. I strive to help every child I work with see the ability they have within. I find great satisfaction in seeing students succeed and grow in self-confidence.

I have been married for 20 years and we have two teenage sons and two pugs. Over the last 10 years I have taken a special interest in the foster care crisis in our state and nation. I have volunteered with many local foster care organizations and became a foster parent myself in 2016.

For Peak I work with students in grades Pre-K through 9. I specialize in core academic support, mindfulness, social and emotional learning and executive functions development. 

Testimonial:

Coming soon…

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Dr Jeffrey J

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

II grew up in Phoenix in a family of educators. After teaching high school for a few years, I went to New York to teach at a middle school in the Bronx and get my Masters in Mathematics Education from Teachers College at Columbia University. When my first son was born my wife and I decided to come back home to teach high school and college classes, and to get my Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction from Arizona State University.

I have over 20 years of experience teaching in school settings in New York and Phoenix. I have taught a range of classes, from middle schoolers learning how to change improper fractions to mixed numbers to graduate students deciding whether linear or non-linear regressions would best model their data set. In addition to tutoring friends and family, my favorite experience helping people learn has been helping my own four kids with their homework.

One of the things I love about mathematics is that every concept, no matter how abstract it is, has some connection to the world we live in and work that people do. When I work with learners, my first task is to find what they are interested in – the things they want to do and their passions. Without fail there are connections between their interests and the concepts they are studying. Finding those connections makes learning fun.

I have been singing all my life, and am lucky to have a very musically talented family. In addition to performing together, we love to go hiking  and seeing who is the best at the next board game we try. (Currently my daughter is on a win streak at Settlers of Catan). I competed in a lot of Academic Competitions when I was a kid, from Odyssey of the Mind to Speech and Debate to Academic Decathlon to the Science Olympiad, and I still do a little coaching in some of those events.

For Peak Academics, I offer mathematics tutoring to all grade levels, elementary through high school.

Testimonial:

Coming soon…

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Janine H

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I have a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education of Mathematics from Arizona State University. I hold a Masters Degree in Special Education with an emphasis on students with mild to moderate disabilities from Grand Canyon University. I have also earned a Masters of Science Degree from Grand Canyon University in Mathematics. 

In addition to tutoring, I have been a high school mathematics teacher since 2010. I have taught all levels of high school mathematics ranging from Pre-Algebra to AP Calculus. I also have multiple years of experience supporting students with executive functioning and study skills. 

I love teaching mathematics and executive functioning skills to students and enjoy being able to demonstrate how both areas touch every aspect of their lives. I feel that every student has the ability to be successful when concepts are explained in a way that they can visualize, comprehend and find useful.

For Peak Academics I offer services to secondary students in mathematics, general homework support & executive functioning skills.

Testimonial:

“We have been with Peak Academics for 3 school years and I cannot speak highly enough of their talent. In particular Ms. Janine has been a blessing to our son and family! Janine’s expertise in math is above and beyond, but what really sets her apart is the care and love she puts behind her efforts. There is no doubt that Janine truly cares about your child’s success. She is patient and kind. She has a gifted way of getting concepts and understanding of the subject through to your child. My son really took to her teaching style and was able to grasp concepts quickly under her care. He excelled so much that we requested her at the end of last year to be assigned to us this school year again. We are extremely satisfied and blessed with our experience with Janine.”

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Jessi R

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I grew up in the Chicagoland area and graduated from the University of Illinois with a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts and Secondary Education. I also went back to university to obtain my TESOL certification, a master’s endorsement in English as a Second Language, and a Master's Degree in Curriculum and Development.

I have over ten years of teaching experience in multiple settings: charters, tutoring centers, and public schools. I have taught everything from Honors to Special Ed, as well as online credit recovery courses. I am a grammar and writing nerd, and the majority of my career has focused on ACT/SAT test prep, reading, composition, and grammar concepts.

High expectations, empathy, patience, and building strong meaningful connections with my students are the keys to my success. I want to instill in my students a natural love for learning and push them to constantly seek to better themselves through education in all areas of their lives. I believe that by teaching students to become lifelong learners, I am helping create a more productive and impactful society for our future generations.

My passion in life is travel, and I have even taught abroad in Spain during the 2013-2014 school year. I also enjoy snowboarding and any outdoor activities in my free time, as well as spending as much time with my two dogs as I possibly can. One of my proudest accomplishments is having been awarded “Teacher of the Year” two years in my career. This is an award voted on by students, so to me, it is of the highest of honors to know that my kids find my humor and passion for education to be influential in their lives.

I am so excited to be working for Peak and to offer my services in ACT/SAT test prep, reading, writing, math through geometry, and general homework and executive functioning support.

Testimonial:

“Jessi has been working with our son as he’s transitioned from a struggling middle-schooler to promising high-schooler, and she has been instrumental in this shift.  Not only does she assist with helping Evan understand concepts (she’s an extraordinary math tutor), but she also has been a life-saver in working with his executive functioning skills.  Our son has struggled with ADHD and anxiety since third grade, and we’ve never had a more perfect setup for his education - for the first time, we’re looking forward to a school year, knowing that Jessi has his back.  Thank you!”

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Kathryn M

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I grew up in sunny Pensacola, Florida and attended Florida State University, where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with a minor in Computer Science. After spending some time in the tech space, I was recruited by Teach for America as a secondary math teacher. I moved to Arizona in 2023 and have since been teaching middle school math while earning my Masters in Secondary Education from Arizona State University.

I participated in STEM tutoring sessions throughout my college career, including instructing K-12 and undergraduate students on building websites, robots, programs, and graphic design projects. In addition to tutoring at Peak Academics, I offer my daytime students frequent1-on-1 after school tutoring opportunities to help them achieve their goals.

In my approach to teaching, I prioritize building strong, positive relationships with my students, understanding their unique interests, and adapting my teaching methods to fit their individual needs. I believe in the Whole Child Approach, which focuses not only on academic success but also on the social, emotional, and physical well-being of each student. By incorporating engaging activities and real-world applications into my lessons, I aim to make learning enjoyable and relevant. Additionally, I maintain open communication with students and their families to ensure a supportive and collaborative educational environment.

In my free time, I enjoy the outdoors! I love running and walking in the Arizona sunshine. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is what keeps me sharp. I’m also an avid music lover, and you can catch me playing bass guitar with my band. I also love to travel. I’ve been all over the world, and I still believe there is much to see!

At Peak Academics, I support learners in grades 5 through 9. While math is my specialty, I can help guide children who need extra support or enrichment in reading/writing, science, history, and executive functioning skills. I love learning alongside my students!

Testimonial:

Coming soon…

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Kelsi K

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I hold a master's degree in teaching and have been working as an educator since 2017, working in both California and Arizona. My journey includes being a founding teacher at an entrepreneurial-based charter school, where I helped shape a unique learning environment. I have also tutored privately beginning in 2017, specializing in individualized instruction and homework support.

Throughout my career, I have gained extensive experience in diverse educational settings, from charter schools to private tutoring. I have led the development and implementation of school-wide ELA intervention programs, created personalized learning plans for students, and focused on closing achievement gaps. My experience spans a variety of roles, all centered on helping students reach their fullest potential.

I believe in creating a safe, fun learning environment that takes each child's individual learning style into account. I prioritize building strong, trusting relationships with students, allowing them to feel supported and confident in taking academic risks. My approach is holistic, incorporating social-emotional learning and student interests to make learning meaningful.

Outside of teaching, I enjoy reading, writing, and developing curriculum, as well as spending time outdoors hiking. I also play guitar and piano, love playing board games, and have a particular fondness for all things autumn. These interests not only fuel my own joy but also serve as great tools to engage students and bring lessons to life in relatable ways.

At Peak Academics I offer general homework and executive functions support, as well as remediation and enrichment in the core academic areas of reading, writing and math to students in grades Pre-K through 6. I also provide in-home lessons in STEAM, art, music, cooking, and mindfulness.

TESTIMONIAL:

Coming soon…

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Kerrilee W

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I grew up in Michigan and have since lived in Maryland and Arizona. One of my favorite positions in my early career was teaching art classes to underserved children as a volunteer with Free Arts of Arizona. That experience was the impetus that led me to pursue a career as a teacher. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts with a focus on mixed media and a master’s degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. My teaching certification is in cross categorical special education.

I have been teaching special education since 2000 in private, public, and charter schools. I have tutored children in kindergarten through middle school. I have served as a 504 coordinator and English Language Development Specialist, as well as Special Services Program Coach, supporting schools and teachers in their efforts to implement best practices for all students.

Helping students appreciate their own strengths and talents while enlarging conceptions of their capabilities encourages curiosity and a positive approach to lessons. I support children to seek their personal best through the persistent pursuit of improvement. Our goal is independence and a sense of wonder.

I enjoy reading and discussing books about education, sociology, and philosophy when I am not walking or hiking with my best four-legged friend.

As a tutor, I specialize in organization and task completion with all ages, as well as core academic skills with elementary-aged students. I especially enjoy collaborating with parents to benefit their children as we work toward greater independence. My hope is that through consistent support students can generalize their skills to new situations, respond efficiently to challenges, and enjoy their successes.

TESTIMONIAL:

“I’ve come to look forward to our sessions with Kerri because I know she has the skill level, both academically and on the personal level, to give my son the help he needs.”

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Kim L

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I spent most of my time growing up in a suburb of Illinois. My older sister has Cerebral Palsy, and helping her came naturally to me. My experience with my sister led me to pursue a career in the education field. I went to college at Northern Illinois University, where I majored in Special Education and attained my Learning Behavior Specialist degree. I moved to Arizona in 2018 and have been teaching ever since at an Autism-focused private school.

I have taught middle school Math and Social Skills/Self-Regulation since beginning my teaching career. I also have experience teaching reading comprehension and writing. I have an absolute passion for teaching, as I was once a student who struggled in middle school (especially in math). I believe this is why I have such a desire to use a variety of methods, such as visuals, games, and small-group instruction.

I strongly believe in building a genuine relationship with each and every student. I love to learn about their passions, dislikes, and what motivates them. Building rapport with each student goes a long way in growing that student's confidence, advocacy skills, and learning. I strive to make every student feel loved and supported, and this shows in my day-to-day teaching.

I love to spend my free time with my boyfriend Zack, friends, in the outdoors, or with my cat Toby. Recently, I have been training to run a half marathon, so I love to set goals for myself and see the progress I make over time. I also love to cook, go hiking, and camp up North in the Flagstaff area.

At Peak Academics, I offer services for students in grades 5-8. I provide hands-on learning and differentiated instruction in: math, reading comprehension, writing, self-regulation, executive functions, and social skills.

Testimonial:

Coming soon…

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Mandy H

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I have lived in Arizona for 40 years, so I grew up watching the cotton grow in the fields near our home, running through the floodwater left by the monsoons, and taking camping trips up north to escape the heat. I have two, grown children with my husband of 24 years and two dogs that require more maintenance than either of our children ever did!

I completed my K-12 education in the Scottsdale Unified School District. I began my undergraduate studies at Scottsdale Community College before transferring to ASU’s Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College to pursue my Bachelor’s degree in Special Education. In 2012, I completed my Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Nova Southeastern University, a private research university based in Florida.

I began teaching in 2007 and have had the opportunity to serve in multiple roles throughout my career. Most of my experiences have taken place in the K-6 setting where I have provided small group and individualized instruction to students with a wide range of academic, social emotional, and behavioral learning needs. I’ve also served as a behavior interventionist, after school interventionist, inclusion specialist, and served on the PBIS (Positive Behavior Supports and Intervention) district leadership team. Currently, I serve as my district’s special education mentor. I work with teachers who are in their first and second years of teaching in K-6 special education settings, while providing a wide range of professional development classes district-wide.

My whole child approach to learning takes the holistic nature of a child’s development into account. While students have academic needs, they also have needs for physical, social-emotional, and mental wellbeing. I am passionate about taking an individualized and flexible approach to meeting those needs in the context of a safe environment, where a connected relationship of mutual trust and respect lays the foundation for optimal student success. I’m able to continually evaluate needs while using a variety of strategies and scaffolds of support in order to work through challenges. I love connecting with students around their strengths and interests because this increases their willingness to take risks, build a growth mindset, and recognize their achievements.

While I spend much of my time carrying out my professional responsibilities, I do find time to recharge. I am an extroverted introvert. I love being with people and make friends easily, but I do need time alone to truly reset. I find that my downtime generally leads to me to listening to an interesting audiobook or podcast while taking a walk outdoors, jumping in the car for a day trip up north, or wandering around an eclectic, secondhand bookstore for hours, latte in hand.

At Peak Academics, I support K-8 students in reading, writing, homework completion, executive functioning, and general support. I also offer math support to K-6 students.

Testimonial:

“Let me start off by saying that my son sits by the window on the days he has sessions with Mandy because, and I quote him, ‘Mandy is my favorite person.’ How did we get so lucky for him to enjoy working on his executive functioning skills so much?! Mandy has been a pillar in his success and he doesn’t even realize how hard he is working with her because she makes it so fun and seems to genuinely care about him! He has made great strides in so many different areas of his life, both at home and at school. My son’s executive functioning skills have improved and he actually looks forward to doing his homework with her! When I see him grasping her hand on the way to his room to do work - I know we’ve been matched up with the perfect instructor.” 

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Sarah Y

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I was born and raised here in Arizona and graduated from Northern Arizona University with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. I also have a minor in Psychology and an endorsement in Structured English Immersion. 

I have been working with K-8 students since 2015. I started my career in aftercare programs, summer camps, and preschools. I started teaching 1st grade in the spring of 2020 and in the spring of 2021 I switched to 2nd grade. In addition to tutoring for Peak Academics, I am currently teaching 1st grade in North Phoenix and I absolutely adore the littles. I have a passion for what I do and I have a special place in my heart for elementary education.

I enjoy making connections with students based on what they love to do. I love seeing students in their element. I have attended several dance recitals, soccer games, baseball games, and other extracurricular activities for my students. I want to know their passions, what drives them, and what gets them excited about learning. I make it a point to build relationships with students and their families. Students learn best when they feel supported and loved.

When I am not teaching or tutoring, I enjoy going to the gym, shopping, hiking, and spending time with family/friends. I love country music, and attend as many country events as I can each year. I also love going to sporting events and rooting on the Suns or the D-Backs. I run on Diet Dr. Pepper - I know such a teacher thing. 

I am so excited to be a part of the Peak Team! I offer services for Pre-K-8 students in core academic areas of reading, writing and math, general homework management and completion, and social/emotional learning.

TESTIMONIAL:

Coming soon…

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Shannon O

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I am a veteran teacher with over 20 years of experience working with students from grades 2-12. I hold degrees in Special and Elementary Education. I was raised in Phoenix, and have raised three children here of my own. I like to travel whenever I can, but when I’m home, I enjoy being with my family, friends, and a small army of pets.

I’ve spent most of my career working with students with executive functioning challenges, learning disabilities, emotional disabilities, and mild intellectual disabilities. I have been a trainer for other teachers in Crisis Prevention for over 10 years, and I am my district’s science curriculum lead for special education.

Building relationships is the key to any successful teaching practice. Getting to know who a child is, along with their strengths and challenges, is essential for creating a successful teaching partnership. It is imperative that students know they are valued and that their teaching partner genuinely cares about them and their success.

I did an internship overseas, and I have been to 18 countries, but I would like to add many more to that count!

For Peak, I offer support for K-8 ELA, K-6 Math, K-8 Science and Social Studies, and K-12 Executive Functions.

Testimonial:

Coming Soon…

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Shea L

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

Hello! As education is so important to overall personal development, success, and happiness, my goal is to build life long learners. After graduating from the University of Colorado Boulder with degrees in Environmental Science and Studio Art, I spent 5 years teaching in India, Thailand, and South Korea. With each experience I added new techniques and perspectives to my teaching tool kit. Finally, from 2021-2023 I taught 5th and 6th grade at a Montessori school in Phoenix, where I continued to implement the whole student approach, design paths forward to meet each individual student where they are, and create content that best meets each student’s strengths and weaknesses. I am now a graduate student at the University of Arizona in Tucson studying business and information systems.

In addition to strengthening my students academically, I work to develop additional skills to best prepare them for a successful life. Some examples of this include guiding them to consider others’ perspectives, as well as teaching them how to think about failure and adapt a growth mindset. A particularly bright 6th grade student who I taught recently routinely produced high quality work, often receiving 100%s and A’s. However, when faced with a challenge she was unable to immediately comprehend, the tension rose drastically, and she was unable to move forward. With her, I added discussions that it is normal and sometimes even a gift to not know everything. We discussed the many theories and discoveries that have come into being after countless mistakes and oversights. It is in fact learning the process of how to learn that is the most important. I believe these lessons in emotional intelligence combined with the academic material will best setup students for success.

In order to develop students comprehensively, I tailor each student’s path based on where they currently are and where they want or need to go. While teaching adult architecture and optometry students in India, I noticed that even though they possessed robust vocabulary, their conversational communication would be quite ineffective for dealing with a client or administering patient care. As a result, I had the architecture students practice English by describing an image for a partner to physically draw and created role-plays and mock interviews for the medical students. In addition, as South Korean children begin to study English from a very young age to prepare for the country’s notoriously competitive college entrance exams, I focused on developing the students’ ability to articulate modern ideas and current events. To illustrate, my 4th grade students researched the global food crisis and proposed their own solutions based on multiple sources and watched Angela Duckworth’s TED Talk about success through grit and discussed how to apply this mindset to their own lives.

Lastly, I try to implement assignments and activities that will cultivate meeting standards yet still allow enough flexibility for students to choose their own way forward, thereby making it inherently interesting. A recent classroom assignment was to explain Japanese Shinto-ism to peer classmates. The topic itself met the state’s curriculum requirement of studying ancient civilizations and I gave the children the option to write a storyboard, create a play, give an oral presentation, make a mobile, or otherwise construct any creative manner to convey what they had learned. Across the board, the children are so much more excited, and resultantly, learn so much more from their assignments when they are able to choose based on their own volition.

As shown through my extensive time living abroad, I am incredibly curious about learning new ideas and perspectives, as well as meeting new people and exploring various places. I also have a strong love for the outdoors and am an avid hiker, runner, and snowboarder. When not out on an adventure, I can be found relaxing with a home-cooked meal and a good book.

For Peak Academics I offer services in general grade K-8 academic tutoring, with a concentration in language skills and math, as well as enhancing executive functioning skills.

TESTIMONIAL:

“My 13-year-old daughter had a late diagnosis of dyscalculia. Unfortunately, after years of struggling with math, she internalized that she was ‘bad at math.’ She had come to truly dread math and was really opposed to the idea of a math tutor at home (i.e., having to spend even more time on math). Math was such a struggle for her once she got to middle school that she started losing confidence in other subjects too. Shea start working with my daughter and immediately made her feel comfortable. She was happy to finally ‘get’ some of the foundations she had been missing. I cannot emphasize enough how important that has been. My daughter had been getting even further behind her peers because she never grasped some fundamental concepts from elementary school. After her time with Shea, she really started to gain confidence in math and school in general. When asked what she thought about Shea she said ‘Oh, she was awesome! She took her time and had patience while teaching me. She understood when I needed breaks. She was amazing!’“ 

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