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 to a variety of ages.

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 Spanish and offer guidance in music assignments.

Testimonial:

Coming soon…

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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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