Alex L

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I grew up in Arizona, attending a college preparatory school and a local four-year university. I have experience in many different settings, ranging from research during my undergraduate studies to earning a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s in Special Education. Most recently, I achieved highly qualified status with the state of Arizona by passing the math exam to teach all levels of math through high school.

My primary teaching experience has been in ABA therapy for individuals with autism, special education across all core subjects from elementary through high school, and math from middle school through high school. I also have some experience in entrepreneurship through starting a business centered around cooking, along with teaching personal finance and entrepreneurship classes. I continue to explore and expand my knowledge in both math and cooking through experimentation in the kitchen and some basic statistical analysis work in recreational settings (e.g., fantasy sports).

I aim to get to know each student and learn what motivates them. What do they like to do? How can their learning connect to that motivation or goal? What experience do I have that can relate and help guide them? If I am not an expert, do I know someone I can reference to help them along their path?

I focus on finding what works best for each student to help them succeed, promoting organizational tools and strategies that are realistic and sustainable to support them in becoming the best learner they can be.

I am a huge sports fan and a moderate fan of movies, TV, and video games. I follow college football, baseball, basketball, hockey, and volleyball, as well as professional football, baseball, and hockey. As much as I love watching sports, attending them live is where it’s at. I am primarily a Nintendo fan but also enjoy action/adventure fantasy RPG games alongside sports games. My favorite movie genres are comedies, drama, and horror. I have two dogs, one cat, and a son, and I enjoy sharing these interests with them when I can.

At Peak, I primarily offer math tutoring but also enjoy teaching cooking skills. There’s a lot of math and estimation involved in cooking, and I find the two blend well together. I also have experience working through school challenges and have tried many different organizational methods that have worked for me and for others.

Testimonial:

Coming soon…

---

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.”

---

Ava R

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I am originally from Connecticut and relocated to Arizona in 2020 to complete my Teach For America service after graduating from Georgetown University in Washington, DC. At Georgetown, I studied Justice and Peace Studies, cognitive science, and Spanish language. Spanish is my second language, and I achieved fluency after completing a study abroad program in Buenos Aires, Argentina. I hold a Master of Education from Arizona State University and am passionate about helping students reach their full potential. I believe in the pursuit of lifelong learning and am excited to be a part of the Peak Academics team, supporting students as they navigate their education with that same passion for learning.

I began my secondary classroom teaching role in 2020. As an undergraduate, I participated in a number of mentoring and tutoring organizations for students in the Washington, DC area. Since then, I have taught both science and social studies at the secondary level, spanning grades 6–9, while also continuing to provide individualized tutoring support.

In assisting students academically, I also prioritize their personal and emotional needs. I recognize that every student brings unique life and cultural experiences into the learning environment. I aim to elicit and celebrate this prior knowledge and connect it to academic content in ways that bridge students’ personal interests with their academic learning.

Outside of teaching, I am a classically trained cellist and began playing the cello at 8 years old. I love collaborating with other musicians on projects and have found great reward in maintaining my cello practice into adulthood. I also enjoy hiking and make a point to get outdoors all winter long with my dog to take in Arizona’s beautiful scenery.

At Peak Academics, I provide executive function coaching and academic tutoring across subject areas for secondary students, including specialty tutoring in English, social studies, science, and Spanish. I also support elementary students with general academics and offer guidance in music assignments.

Testimonial:

Coming soon…

---

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 support in place.

Since 2012, 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. At any given moment, I have at least a few different personal and professional development programs I’m engaged in. 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! “

---

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.“ 

---

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…

---

Jane W

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I graduated from Simmons College in 1984 with a degree in Written Communications. In 2009, I earned my Master of Arts in Teaching from the University of Phoenix. I later completed my life coaching training through Radiant Coaching Academy. These educational experiences, combined with my diverse professional background, have shaped my lifelong commitment to learning, personal development, and service to others.

My professional teaching career began in 1987. Over the past 30+ years, I have taught in a variety of settings—classrooms, tennis courts, kitchens, and mentoring groups. Across all of these environments, I bring a consistent, deeply rooted professional approach that reflects both respect for individuals and confidence in the learning process. I believe in every person’s capacity to grow, and I meet each teaching opportunity with the commitment to help others succeed.

I connect with students by creating an environment of trust, respect, and encouragement—one that recognizes each child’s unique strengths, interests, and challenges. Whether in an academic setting, on the tennis court, or in a mentoring role, I take time to understand the whole child, including their emotional well-being, family context, and learning style. I use active listening, consistent routines, and individualized support to foster growth and resilience. My goal is to help students feel seen, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential—not just academically, but as confident, capable individuals.

I’m a lifelong learner who finds joy in creativity, connection, and growth—both in myself and in others. I love to cook, exercise, and spend quality time with my family. I’m also passionate about life and academic coaching, and I genuinely enjoy helping others build confidence as they navigate challenges and discover their own solutions. What makes me unique is my ability to connect deeply with people of all ages and backgrounds, often recognizing strengths they haven’t yet seen in themselves. I bring humor, empathy, and curiosity to everything I do, and I thrive in environments where I can breathe deeply and offer steady, meaningful support to my clients, friends, and family.

At Peak, I offer a comprehensive range of services designed to support students academically, emotionally, and strategically. My core academic support includes tutoring in math (from foundational skills through Algebra) and homework help in all subjects to reinforce classroom learning and build confidence. I specialize in executive functioning skills support, helping students strengthen essential skills like time management, organization, task initiation, and study strategies. My academic coaching services focus on motivation, mindset, self-advocacy, and personalized learning techniques that empower students to take ownership of their education.

Testimonial:

Coming soon…

---

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…

---

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.”

---

Dr Jeffrey J

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I 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…

---

Jessica W

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I have a Bachelor of Science in Education degree with certifications in English and social studies, and a Master of Education degree in curriculum and instruction.  I also hold a K-12 Reading Specialist endorsement.   

I have been educating children for twenty-six years. In addition to tutoring, I have had the opportunity to work in both public and private schools. I have worked with students in grades six through twelve. I have had experience teaching English and history courses at the regular, honors and Advanced Placement level. I have also taught stand-alone reading, writing and study skills courses. I have been a high school College and Career program coordinator, and, in that role, I have taught college preparation courses and executive functions courses.

I believe the role of an educator is to facilitate the development of both content and executive functioning skills so that all students have the opportunity to become the best version of themselves. All students are capable of academic success when they are given the tools and support necessary to achieve that success. Once they experience that truth, they gain the confidence necessary to thrive in any academic setting. I appreciate having the opportunity to help students develop those skills that will support their success and build their confidence.

At Peak Academics, I offer executive functions coaching to students grades 6 and up.

Testimonial:

Coming soon…

---

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!"

---

Kim L

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I spent most of my time growing up in a suburb of Illinois. My older sister has a severe form of Cerebral Palsy, and helping her came naturally to me. My experience with her led me to pursue a career in special education! I attended Northern Illinois University, where I majored in Special Education and received a Learning Behavior Specialist degree. I also recently obtained an endorsement in Structured English Immersion.

Most of my special education teaching experience is with middle schoolers, although I did teach for 1 year at the high school level. For several years, I taught students with mild to moderate autism. Our focus was not just on academic success, but on self-regulation, independence, and appropriate social skills. Recently, I have shifted into a resource-based teaching role within the public school system. I am now primarily working with students with a variety of learning disabilities, as well as supporting ELLs (English Language Learners).

I was once a student who struggled with middle school math, which is ironic because Math is one of my favorite subjects to teach! Visuals, manipulatives, games, and humor are go-to strategies I use to try and make learning fun and engaging for my students. I love to learn about a student's passions, dislikes, and what motivates them. I also believe that building trust and rapport with each student is essential for growth in confidence, self-advocacy, and learning.

At home, I love to spend my time with my boyfriend Zack, our cat, Toby, and our new dog, Cooper. We love to be outside camping or paddleboarding, trying new restaurants, or traveling to see friends and family in different states. I also enjoy running, relaxing with a cozy blanket and warm-smelling candle, and cooking.

At Peak Academics, I primarily support students at the middle and high school levels. I provide hands-on learning and differentiated instruction in math, reading, writing, science, and social studies. I also provide executive functions support, such as help with organization, time-management, and self-advocacy.

Testimonial:

Kim is amazing. Our teenage son who has ADHD and is on the spectrum was struggling with his math and other classes. Kim took the time to better understand why he was having such a difficult time. She has so much understanding of how to teach students like my son. She helped him feel better about himself and to have confidence. I would highly recommend Kim as a tutor!

---

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…

---

Madi B R

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I have lived in several major cities across Arizona; I was born and raised in Flagstaff, spent time in Tucson, and now plan on settling in Phoenix. I received my Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics from The University of Arizona, along with three minors: Statistics and Data Science (SDS), Information, Science, Technology, and Arts (ISTA), and Psychology. I also earned my Master’s in Secondary Education with a PreK–12 Structured English Immersion Endorsement from Arizona State University.

With extensive experience supporting students in a variety of settings, I have worked with learners across middle school, high school, college, and university levels. My background includes teaching high school Algebra 1 and Algebra 2, tutoring math at multiple grade levels, coaching volleyball, and helping coordinate a university-level math readiness program. I have also been part of Teach for America’s Phoenix Corps, where I engaged in professional development focused on educational equity and empowering all students with the tools they need to succeed.

I know that math can feel intimidating for many students - sometimes because of gaps in foundational skills, a fear of making mistakes, or learning differences like dyscalculia. I meet students where they are, offering different strategies until we find the one that works best for them. My inquiry-based approach encourages students to think freely, ask questions, and make connections between their interests and the material, so they see more value in what they’re learning. As Ignacio Estrada said, “If a child can’t learn the way we teach, maybe we should teach the way they learn.”

Outside of tutoring, I enjoy staying active through yoga and swimming. I’ve played volleyball since middle school and was once recruited to play for a community college in Oregon. Music has also been a part of my life - I learned clarinet in high school and piano in elementary school. At home, I share life with my incredibly outgoing and supportive husband, James, along with my dog, Mo, and my eyelash crested gecko, Juice. A fun fact about me is that I can bite into ice cream without flinching!

At Peak Academics, I provide math tutoring for grades 6 and up, helping students strengthen their skills, build confidence, and develop strategies that will support their success far beyond the classroom.

Testimonial:

Coming soon…

---

Linda M

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I grew up in a wonderful, big family in New Mexico. We visited my grandparents in Phoenix often, and I decided that’s where I wanted to live. After several years of accounting study at Arizona State University, I realized that teaching was truly where my heart belongs. I received my Bachelor of Arts in Educational Studies from ASU. Shortly after that, I completed my Master’s in Education from the University of Phoenix. I am a Certified Teacher in Arizona with a Math Middle School Endorsement, as well as a K–12 ESL Endorsement.

I currently teach middle school mathematics. I started as an elementary school teacher and discovered that my passion is teaching middle schoolers. I have taught for over 30 years, most of them in the same district. I have been a tutor for the last ten of those years and thoroughly enjoy it. Working one-on-one is very satisfying for both the teacher and the learner. My experience with tutoring has also helped me become a better classroom teacher.

I truly believe that students learn best when they feel valued and important. I provide an easy-going, loving approach. I understand that math is often the last thing most adolescents want to think about. Finding connections with students as people we care about fosters success. I struggled with math growing up and remember feeling frustrated. That memory helps me to have patience and genuine confidence that everyone can learn. I want kids to understand why math works in addition to how it works. Middle school can be difficult on many levels, and students thrive when they are comfortable.

When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my adult daughter, Adrienne, and my two “granddogs.” They are relaxing to be with, and the dogs always keep me laughing. I love to garden and have finally come to understand the complexities of the Arizona climate. I read a lot of historical fiction, my favorite genre, and I’m always up for having coffee with friends or family.

Math is my expertise, but I also enjoy supporting students in building executive functioning skills, including initiation, planning, organization, and task completion. I offer general homework support as well.

Testimonial:

“Linda is a fantastic math tutor who made a huge difference in a short amount of time. When she began working with my son during the last quarter of his 7th grade accelerated math class, he was struggling with a low grade and feeling frustrated and overwhelmed. Linda brought so much patience, flexibility, and encouragement, quickly building a great rapport and helping him regain confidence in his abilities. She was incredibly accommodating, always willing to adjust her schedule or provide extra support as needed. Thanks to her help, he was able to turn things around, significantly improve his grade, and, most importantly, feel much more confident in math. I am truly grateful for Linda’s support and highly recommend her to anyone looking for a skilled and caring tutor.”

---

Patti G

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I grew up in the Midwest in a large Mexican American family. I went to high school in Waukesha, WI and graduated twice from University of Wisconsin: Milwaukee - first with a Bachelors in Elementary Ed 1-6 and Bilingual Education, then again with a Masters degree in Educational Psychology.  I also have 30 plus post masters credits in various social emotional topics, like Stress Management, Trauma, Bullying, Resiliency and Grief.   

I have spent the last 28 years working with students in a variety of capacities. I started out as a Bilingual Elementary Teacher, teaching 5th grade for 7.5 years. After I finished my Masters degree, I became a School Counselor. I worked in a Bilingual K-6 for 7.5 years and, after a move to MN, in Middle School (grades 6-8) for 10 years. I also spent time as a Substitute teacher, Preschool Spanish teacher, an Adult English as a Second Language teacher, and a Parent Educator.  

Throughout those first years as a classroom teacher, it became very apparent to me that too many students were not able to reach their true potential due to non-educational roadblocks. They needed help coping with other factors, like anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, social skills, family issues/changes, and executive functioning skills. Helping a student through these types of roadblocks became a true passion for me. Students needed a safe person/space to discuss and work on these issues and I wanted to be that person and to provide the space.  

As a recent AZ transplant, I am really excited to explore this beautiful state and to build the next chapter of my life here.  I enjoy reading, organizing and traveling.  I am hoping to get much better at being active. I have 3 adult children and will no doubt spend much time keeping up with their busy lives!  

Here at Peak Academics, I support students grades 3 and older.  I can help with both academics and executive functions.  I am especially good at building strong rapport with students and families and look forward to helping students reach their true potential. 

TESTIMONIAL:

Coming soon…

---

Zoe G

INSTRUCTOR PROFILE: 

I’m originally from San Diego and began my journey in education at Arizona State University, where I earned both my B.A. in Elementary Education and my M.Ed. in Global Education. After completing graduate school, I moved back to San Diego and spent several years teaching and growing as an educator—that’s also where I met my fiancé! We later moved—me returning and him for the first time—to Arizona to settle down, build our lives together, and plan our wedding.

I have experience teaching 3rd through 6th grade and currently teach all subjects in 6th grade, while also teaching education courses at the college level and tutoring part-time at Peak Academics. In a previous role as a lead instructor at a K–8 school, I had the opportunity to support students across grade levels and content areas, which strengthened my ability to differentiate instruction and build strong academic foundations. I’m particularly passionate about supporting executive functioning skills, such as time management, planning, and organization. I bring structure, encouragement, and a calm presence to my teaching, helping students feel confident and capable in both their academic work and their daily routines.

Students thrive when they feel seen, valued, and supported as whole people, not just as learners. Teaching the whole child is essential to me because academic success is deeply connected to emotional well-being, confidence, and self-awareness. I love working with children, and it brings me immense joy to help them discover not only what they can do, but also who they are becoming. I bring warmth, consistency, and genuine care into my teaching so that students feel safe to take risks, ask questions, and grow at their own pace. Helping students develop a love of learning—and a love of themselves—is at the heart of everything I do.

Outside of teaching, I’m a big fan of traveling, reading, writing, and planning my next adventure. I’m a social butterfly who loves spending time with friends and family, and I have a playful Goldendoodle named Sage, who keeps me on my toes and adds so much joy to my daily life. I’m also a proud middle child of three sisters, all of whom are one grade apart, which has shaped my collaborative and playful nature. I love connecting with people and bringing energy and positivity into everything I do.

At Peak, I provide academic support in all core subjects, executive functioning, and test preparation. I also work with students on mindset and motivation, helping them develop the confidence and tools they need to succeed both in and out of the classroom. I developed a love of planning and organization at a young age, which led me to a passion for learning. My goal is to support every child in building their own love of learning.

Testimonial:

Coming soon…

---