"Is your middle schooler struggling with the SSAT or ISEE English sections and shutting down during drills?

One recent SSAT student jumped from the 3rd to the 80th percentile in just five weeks. I specialize in rebuilding confidence and teaching practical test-taking skills without burnout.

Since 2019, I've worked exclusively with middle schoolers in one-on-one and small group settings. I help with SSAT/ISEE prep, ongoing English coursework, including semester essays and literature analysis, reading comprehension, grammar, and study skills for classroom tests.

"Thank you for your coaching on scores, tools, and SSAT mindset." (Parent of 8th grader)

What We Actually Do in Sessions: I teach strategies students can use immediately. We practice eliminating wrong answers first, identifying main ideas by reading first and last sentences, and managing time so that easier questions build confidence before tackling harder ones. For vocabulary, I've built custom tools my students actually use between sessions—turning practice into something that sticks.

My Journey: I started teaching at 16, detoured through law offices and my JD, then returned to teaching with TEFL/TESOL certification. I've taught at LA City College and Santa Barbara City College. That long path taught me what actually helps students learn and what wastes their time.

Six years of full-time test prep have taught me how to adapt to different learning styles, especially for students who resist rigid methods. I create a safe space where students can struggle productively, ask questions without judgment, and develop skills that transfer beyond test day.

My students learn to think strategically and trust themselves under pressure.

Your child deserves someone who combines practical strategies with real understanding. Let's talk." less...