Alex P

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I grew up in Arizona before moving to Missouri to study Equestrian Science at William Woods University. After earning my bachelor's degree, I combined my passion for teaching with my love of horses by working as a horse trainer and horseback riding instructor in Wisconsin. Later, I returned to William Woods University to complete a Master of Education in Equestrian Education while serving as a graduate assistant, which allowed me to further explore more formal teaching opportunities at the university level. Upon graduation, I returned to Wisconsin, where I continued working as an equine professional until 2020. While I loved my time in the horse industry, I realized that I wanted to make an even greater impact on young people, so I returned to Arizona, completed an accelerated teacher certification program, and became a middle school science teacher. In 2026, I earned a second Master of Education from Arizona State University in Educational Leadership, further strengthening my commitment to supporting students both inside and outside the classroom.

I am currently a sixth-grade science teacher with experience teaching a wide range of learners, from students who need additional academic support to those seeking greater challenges. In addition to classroom teaching, I have provided one-on-one homebound science instruction and serve as a Teacher Instructional Leader on my campus, where I help coordinate school-wide academic interventions and supports. In addition to teaching, I consider myself a life-long learner. I am an Arizona STEM Acceleration Project Fellow and have participated in professional learning through organizations including NOAA, NASA, and the American Meteorological Society. In 2026, I was honored as my school's Teacher of the Year and completed the certification process through the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards in Early Adolescence Science. These experiences have strengthened my ability to tailor instruction to each student's individual needs and learning style.

I believe every student learns best when they feel valued, supported, and challenged. I truly believe that all students can learn and do hard things and am passionate about providing the support necessary to help students realize their own potential. I take time to build positive relationships with students so they know I genuinely care about their success, both academically and personally. I strive to make learning engaging by connecting lessons to students' interests, encouraging curiosity, and celebrating growth rather than perfection. My goal is to build students' confidence, help them develop strong problem-solving skills, and foster a lifelong love of learning.

Outside of teaching, I still enjoy spending time around horses and appreciate any opportunity to be outdoors. I have one horse, Marshall, who “graduated” with me from William Woods University and is currently enjoying a well-deserved retirement. I also have three cats: Finn, Leo, and Mochi. I always love learning new things and continuously  look for ways to improve my teaching and explore new areas of science and education. Whether I'm in the classroom or pursuing a personal interest, I enjoy solving problems, staying curious, and continuing to learn.

I offer individualized tutoring in elementary and middle school science, math, reading and writing, study skills, organization, and executive functioning. My tutoring sessions are tailored to each student's learning style and goals, whether they need help building foundational skills, increasing confidence, or extending their understanding beyond the classroom. My goal is to help students build both academic skills and confidence so they can become more independent learners. To achieve this goal, I create a supportive, encouraging environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and making mistakes as part of the learning process.

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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Janessa K

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I was born and raised in Vancouver, Washington, and lived there until 2017 when I moved to Arizona to attend Arizona State University. I quickly fell in love with the sunshine and community here. Since then, I’ve moved from Tempe to Scottsdale and have met so many amazing people who’ve become a big part of my journey. After graduating from ASU, I realized my love for learning wasn’t over—so I returned to school to pursue my Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on Gifted Education, which I recently completed.

I currently teach 5th and 6th grade students at a project-based learning school where I specialize in reading, writing, and supporting English Language Learners. I also serve as a team lead, collaborating with my colleagues to help build and refine our school’s curriculum. I’m passionate about small group instruction, student choice, and helping each learner tap into their unique strengths through strong relationships and meaningful connection. Whether a student needs extra support or an academic challenge, I love building their confidence and helping them rediscover joy in learning.

Outside of the classroom, I love staying active and spending time with the people (and pets!) I love. I have a kitten named Jax who always keeps life interesting. I enjoy going on walks, reading, working out, relaxing by the pool, and traveling whenever I get the chance. Quality time with friends is one of my favorite ways to recharge and stay grounded.

At Peak Academics, I provide tutoring support for upper elementary and middle school students in core academics, including reading, writing, and math. I also offer general homework support, executive functioning skills like organization and time management, and mindfulness strategies to help students feel focused and confident. I enjoy bringing creativity and innovation into my sessions and love finding ways to make learning feel engaging, accessible, and meaningful for each student.

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:

"Kelsi has been an amazing tutor for both my son and my daughter. She knows how to inspire a genuine love for learning and makes each session fun and engaging. Kelsi always comes very prepared and has a knack for filling in gaps while also providing supplemental learning that really piques their interest. We love that she includes my younger son whenever he wants to join in, creating such a welcoming atmosphere for all of my kids. It’s great to see the excitement on their faces when she arrives. I can’t recommend Kelsi enough for her creativity and the positive impact she has on our kids!"

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Lily M

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I’m originally from Colorado, but after living in Arizona for over a decade, I proudly call it home. I attended high school in the West Valley before earning my bachelor's degree in Secondary Education with a focus on Biological Sciences from Arizona State University. I have extensive coursework in science and math (up to Calculus III) and am currently working toward my master’s degree in education.

With a decade of combined experience tutoring and teaching across diverse educational settings, I have developed a flexible, adaptive approach to learning. My background spans tutoring writing, teaching a range of science subjects at both the middle and high school levels, and contributing to professional development initiatives. I have worked one-on-one with students as well as in classroom environments, which has enriched my ability to support every learner’s unique needs.

I love being a teacher because every student brings their own perspective to the classroom. Building strong relationships based on trust and respect is my top priority, and I strive to connect with each student through my passion for science—igniting curiosity and a genuine love for learning.

When I’m not in the classroom, you’ll usually find me hiking with my dog or camping off the grid. One of my proudest achievements was completing a rim-to-rim hike in the Grand Canyon! I also enjoy getting creative with crafts, experimenting in the kitchen, swing dancing, practicing yoga, and spending quality time with family and friends.

I am excited to support students in a range of subjects, with a special focus on math and science. I also offer enrichment services, executive functioning support, study skills coaching, and general homework assistance to help each student succeed.

TESTIMONIAL:

Coming soon…

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