"Hi, I’m Tarra, a dedicated reading and writing tutor with over 15 years of experience helping students from kindergarten through college build strong literacy skills and confidence. I specialize in phonics, reading comprehension, essay writing, and college application support. I’m also certified to teach English as a Second Language (TOEFL) and have worked with both native and non-native speakers to improve fluency and written expression.

I earned my B.A. in Legal Studies, graduating magna cum laude with a minor in Sociology and Spanish. While in college, I won Second Place in the Junior-Year Best Essay Contest and later worked as an editorial assistant for a national youth arts program coordinated by the White House. My work included proofreading and editing ceremony materials, managing communications with youth programs, and supporting the publication of an annual national awards booklet.

I’ve helped students of all ages strengthen their writing, from early phonics and grammar to persuasive essays and scholarship applications. One of my proudest moments was supporting a high school student with his college essay; he went on to win a scholarship for his submission. I’ve also mentored teens in a youth editorial program, guiding them through research, interviewing, and writing for a magazine section centered on social justice. My approach is warm, patient, and student-centered. I aim to make writing feel less intimidating by helping students connect to their ideas and structure them clearly.

I'm available evenings and weekends and offer sessions tailored to your or your child’s needs. Feel free to contact me with any additional questions or to schedule a lesson!" less...