Founder & CEO

Maria Ferzola Lipiros

BS, Mathematics & Chemistry, University of Scranton; Secondary Mathematics, Drexel University; Finance & Accounting, Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

Why I TEACH: I TEACH because nothing gives me more joy than seeing that look of sudden understanding on a student’s face. Whether helping to increase a child’s confidence in Math, supporting a student to finally reach their goal score, or learning that someone I mentored just received an acceptance to their dream college, I truly couldn’t imagine doing more important work than positively impacting the life of another person through education.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: I am always exploring all of the incredible things Philly has to offer with my husband, John, and son, Luke. Some of our favorites include riding the carousel at Franklin Square Park, feeding the birds at the Philadelphia Zoo, and going for brunch at Farmicia or Mixto followed by a long walk. If it’s a really great weekend, we stop for ice cream at Franklin Fountain and then I’m curling up with a new book at Liberty Lands Park while Luke takes his afternoon nap!

My favorite food is: I love all food in general, but some favorites are sushi, pizza, pasta, cotton candy grapes, burrata, and ice cream!

Director of Finance

Jeanette B

BSc in Mathematics, University College London, England

On the weekends when I’m not working: You can find me tending to my veggies in the garden, cooking and baking in the kitchen, foraging for wild mushrooms in the woods, or enjoying the lakes and mountains with my family.

My favorite food is: This is an impossible question, because I love food. I love anything Mediterranean or ethnic, especially Ethiopian food! Oh, and whipped cream.

Director of Quality and Instruction

Ania B-W

BA in History, SUNY Geneseo; MA Modern European History, Brown University; ABD Modern European History, Brown University

Why I TEACH: I come from a long line of academics and life-long learners. My family has instilled in me not only a love for learning but also taught me its value. Additionally, I recognize that education serves as a gateway to a better future, that sadly many do not have access to. Working with students provides me an opportunity to pass that love of learning to the next generation.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: I love to travel! Whether it is domestic or international, discovering new cultures has always been a passion of mine. When I am not traveling, I love spending time with my husband and two kids. We are an active family, so on most weekends we like to go to the zoo or a museum and spend time together. And when I do get a moment to myself, which is rare, there is nothing better than a great book!

My favorite food is: Middle Eastern food or cheese and charcuterie

Director of Program Operations

Jane L

BS in English Education, Boston University

Why I TEACH: I’m the behind the scenes person who is invested in making sure our students and tutors can totally focus on learning and not worry about the other stuff. School was the place where I learned to believe in myself, and I want young people to have that same feeling when they leave a TEACH session.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: I’m spending time with my family – I have one son and I am one of 6 kids so I love spending time with my sisters. I also like taking walks with my dog, Gary and taking or teaching barre classes.

My favorite food is: Ice cream and cookies – big sweet tooth!

Director of Business Operations

Sara M

MBA candidate at Villanova University; BA in Classics & Hispanic Studies, University of Pennsylvania

Why I TEACH: I believe every student deserves access to a high quality education, so I am proud to be part of a team that enables that for so many students. I was lucky in my own education to have teachers who instilled in me a love of learning and gave me confidence that I could tackle things that initially seemed impossible. While my role is more behind the scenes, I am driven by ensuring my work ultimately helps more students build that confidence and love of learning.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: I’m happiest spending time with friends and family! I love trying new restaurants or activities in Philly, finding a nice hike nearby, taking on a fun cooking project, or just cuddling up with a good book on the couch.

My favorite food is: lasagna and soft serve twist

Senior Program Specialist

Omosi A

BS in Biology and Psychology, Philadelphia University (now known as Thomas Jefferson University East Falls Campus)

Why I TEACH: For me, what drew me to education the most is all the experiences I had growing up and the want to create those same spaces for the younger folk who look like me. Throughout college, I was able to learn more in-depth about the educational inequities for black and brown youth, I didn’t even realize were a thing simply because of the environment I was privileged to grow up in and be sheltered from. This fired me up to want to do something about it, and given my love of people and engaging with others, I thought what better way to do that, than to be on the ground doing the work. I thoroughly love and take advantage of any opportunity that allows me to create safe, brave, welcoming, inclusive education spaces for all youth. While especially showing our queer, black, and brown youth, that you are seen, valued, cared for, and heard and school and education can be a safe brave space for you to explore and attain the future you want. So creating that access for our students is what continues to push me to want to do really empowering work for our youth through teaching and tutoring.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: Hmmm, I am a very curious adventurous soul, so truthfully anything allows me to travel, design, and create, I am all about. I love love love playing video games, I am in the works of building my own PC strictly for gaming. I love any and all things music and food related, so trying out new venues and restaurants. I am into renovating homes and doing small home projects for friends, family, and my community. Love being outdoors and on the water, so anything that gets me moving and active while also being outdoors. I enjoy working out and spending quality time with my partner. We love to just have fun with one another and coexist, so we are always trying new things together. I also love watching live sports. You can catch me at Sixers games pretty frequently and any time I travel to major cities, checking out their basketball team’s games as well. Last but not least, who doesn’t love a little bit of retail therapy, so you might catch me at the newest sneaker releases, trying to snag a pair of Air Force 1’s High Tops, or just shopping around for some new pieces.

My favorite food is: I eat to survive, don’t have a favorite 🙂

Lead ELA Instructor & Senior Content Specialist

Dalea R

BA in Literary Studies and the Creative Arts, American University of Paris, MFA in Fiction, University of North Carolina, Greensboro, M.Ed. in Secondary English, Carbini University

Why I TEACH: I love getting the opportunity to work with students face-to-face and seeing the drastic progress they can make in a short time, with focused work and dedication. I love that I get to be a part of students’ success stories, and watching them succeed and reach their goals!

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: I have lots of hobbies, so on a given weekend, you can find me playing roller derby with my team, the Hooligans, or rock climbing with my friends, or hanging out at home playing board games!

My favorite food is: sushi and charcuterie

Senior Content Specialist

Marian D

BS in Management, The Pennsylvania State University – Smeal College of Business
MS is Education, The University of Pennsylvania – Graduate School of Education

Why I TEACH: I love working with students as a tutor because it gives me the opportunity to focus all of my energy on helping a person reach a new level of understanding. I believe learning can be fun, interactive, and engaging; and I enjoy finding creative ways to solve problems and explain answers.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: On the weekends you can find me with family, at church, or hanging out with friends. In my free time I paint portraits, bake cakes, and work on growing my small business – KakeMi 90 Second Cake.

My favorite food is: anything french fries!

HR Generalist

Michelle L

Operations Specialist

Owen S

Rowan University, B.S. Chemical Engineering (Class of 2018)

Why I TEACH:   I’ve always had a passion for education and first started peer tutoring in high school. To me, the most rewarding experience was to see my students not only perform better academically, but to also gain confidence in their own abilities and believe in themselves! I am grateful to have had many excellent teachers and mentors throughout my academic career, and I always value the opportunity to pass along my knowledge and skills to any student that needs it.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching:   When the weather is nice I’m usually out riding my bike around the city or tending to my backyard garden! Indoors, I’m probably trying to gather friends to play something from my ever-growing collection of board games. I also love going to music concerts and frequently am making a new themed playlist – I always enjoy discovering and sharing new music!

My favorite city/place in the world is:   Philly will always be one of my favorite cities since it holds so many wonderful memories for me! Even before I lived in Philly, I was always finding a reason to visit the city such as my first ever live concert at Union Transfer or as a kid taking a field trip to The Franklin Institute, Philly has always felt like my home.

Edward A

BA in Communication and Sociology, University of California, Santa Barbara

Why I TEACH: I teach to leave a positive mark on the word. I teach because education is liberation. I teach because my students deserve to see people who look like them in positions of authority. I teach because it makes me feel good inside.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: I’m running around with my nieces or enjoying the outdoors.

My favorite city/place in the world: Cairo, Egypt. I love looking at the pyramids of Giza in awe.

Gabriel A

BA in Chemistry and M.S.Ed in Learning Sciences, University of Pennsylvania

Why I TEACH: I realized in my junior year of college that my life purpose has always been youth empowerment; while I get to engage Haitian youth in my church community, I TEACH because this work aligns so well with that purpose and my drive to guide students to a deeper understanding of subjects like math and chemistry. I love the moment when a student achieves something that they thought was too challenging at first and especially when I see students encouraging one another in groups!

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: From Friday night to Saturday, you will most likely find me at church working with young people and serving in other ways. Sundays are much more variable, but I love to work with my friends on youth empowerment projects like TBRT and managing the social media for my personal poetry projects.

My favorite city/place in the world is: My favorite city isn’t a city at all; it is the village where my mom grew up: Cotes-de-Fer, Haiti. I’ve only been there once, but I loved being able to commune with nature and escape the busyness of cities. There was a waterfall that was closed up after that natural disaster in Haiti and my family helped to clear away rocks and debris. By the end of the few days we spent there, we made a mini-waterfall and a little oasis as well!

Sinigdha B

Bachelors in Biology from Stony Brook University, with a minor in Africana Studies.

Why I TEACH: In middle school, I struggled with some classes. But my teacher, Ms. Johnson, changed all of that for me. She dedicated extra time and patience to help me catch up. She taught me the power of raising my hand in class and having a growth mindset. With does in mind, I aim to be like Ms. Johnson for my students, inspiring them to become their best selves in school. Together, we’re on a journey of growth, always evolving. I want my students to recognize their ability to grow smarter, brighter, and healthier. No child will be left behind in this shared endeavor.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching:  I enjoy going to the gym and walking my dog. I have a German Shepherd, Caine, and he is 3 years old. He keeps me active and always puts a smile on my face.

My favorite city/place in the world is:  The Dakshineswar Kali Temple which is located in India. I have never visited this temple, but I know I will have the opportunity to go. It would be a great place to connect with my culture and spirituality.

Jon C

Bachelors in Computer Science with a Minor in Entrepreneurship from Penn State University

Why I TEACH: I love helping people learn! It is so rewarding for me to help a student get the coveted “aha moment”. I know how much pain math can bring students when they feel behind. My goal is to not only reduce the pain, but get them excited about math and feel confident in their abilities. I also teach because I really like math and get to do it for work!

Matt C

Beth D

Temple University, BA Strategic and Organizational Communication

Why I TEACH: Ensuring students have support to create a postsecondary plan and access to whatever their goals are!

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: Eating donuts, running races and reading books.

My favorite city/place in the world is: sitting on the beach in Avalon, NJ

Michael E

BS, Chem Eng, Cornell University
MS, Chem Eng, University of Wisconsin – Madison

Why I TEACH: I love the sense of relief that a student feels when they realize they CAN master difficult material.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: Downhill skiing, snowboarding, cooking

My favorite city/place in the world is: I love living in Philadelphia because it is diverse, walk-able, affordable, and full of great restaurants.

Susan F

BA in Journalism (Penn State University), BA in English (Bloomsburg University), M.Ed. Curriculum & Instruction (Bloomsburg University)

Why I TEACH: I love helping students make progress and find their confidence!

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: Either exploring the city, or in the summer, maybe at the beach! I love to read, write, listen to podcasts, and spend time with friends and family.

My favorite city/place in the world is: Paris. The food and the culture. It’s enchanting!

Jenn G

Bachelor’s Degree in History (2010) and Masters Degree in Education (2020), both obtained through Arcadia University in Glenside, PA

Why I TEACH: I love unconventional teaching, showing students of any age that learning can happen in fun ways – often when you’re least expecting it!

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: I love to travel & explore museums, or hang at home and bake. I’m also an avid reader.

My favorite city/place in the world is: I spent a semester in Dublin, Ireland when I was in undergrad, and it still holds a special place in my heart.

Anna G

BS in Economics and Psychology, University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana; Masters degree in Math Education, City College of New York

Why I TEACH: I was a teacher in New York City for 14 years and recently relocated to Philadelphia to be closer to family. I’m especially passionate about helping students realize that all people can understand and enjoy mathematics and helping students believe in their potential and find the courage to keep trying in the face of challenge.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: I enjoy cooking, throwing pottery, playing outside with my kids, and reading.

My favorite food is: Homemade Lemon Meringue Pie

Ashlee G

Pauly G

Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University; Area of Concentration: Astronautics; Minors: Computer Science and Applied Mathematics

Why I TEACH: I am grateful I discovered my passion for teaching. I just love it. I really enjoy helping individuals achieve their academic and intellectual goals or to overcome academic challenges. I can’t make someone love math or physics but I can make learning fun and engaging.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: I may be hiking the many great trails of the Pacific Northwest, paddle boarding on Lake Washington, or cycling the streets of Seattle. My most recent hobby is painting, especially landscapes and mountains. My second career is as an activist fighting for police accountability. I advocate with the families of the victims of police violence and community members for new local, county, and state laws. Our motto is “everyone goes home alive” which includes both community members and law enforcement.

My favorite place/city in the world: I love the beach. More specifically, my favorite place in the world is Long Beach Island (LBI), NJ. LBI is located across the bay from my hometown of Little Egg Harbor, NJ on the mainland. Of course, there are many beautiful beaches all over the world but I call LBI home.

Zakiyyah H

BS in Early Childhood Education, West Chester University

Why I TEACH: Teaching is one of the most amazing and rewarding feelings I can imagine. Enjoyment, appreciation, and passion are a few of many words that sincerely express my enthusiasm for education. I treasure the moments of seeing a child progress and grow and having an impact on their life. Educators are the key to our children’s future. One of my favorite sayings is “If it weren’t for teachers, we wouldn’t have doctors. Doctors save lives but teachers shape lives.”

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: I enjoy spending time with my family, friends and my 80-pound lap dog, Mandi. I enjoy working out, practicing yoga and watching a good movie. In the summer I enjoy relaxing by a pool or at a beach.

My favorite city/place in the world: I wouldn’t necessarily say I have a favorite place. However I love to travel, learn and experience other cultures, great food, and meeting new people. Honestly anywhere I can stand in the water and see my feet will have me at hello.

Chris K

B.S. in Mathematics with a Minor in Education from the University of Pittsburgh

M.S.Ed. in Secondary Mathematics Education from the University of Pennsylvania

PA grades 7-12 Math Teaching Certification

Project-Based Learning Graduate Certificate from the University of Pennsylvania’s Graduate School of Education

Why I TEACH: I believe young people are the future of our world, and I love supporting others to unlock their true mathematical potential by helping them to realize that math is all around us. It brings me great joy when young people truly see themselves as “math people” (Yes, we all are “math people”!).

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: You can find me either at the gym or enjoying a book in Clark Park or Rittenhouse Square. Afterward, I might bike over to Franklin Fountain for some dessert (sweets are my kryptonite).

My favorite food is: Pizza from Paulie Gee’s Soul City Slice Shop

Colleen H

M.S. from Drexel University and B.S. from University of Delaware

Rabi J

BS in Education & Public Policy, BA in African American Studies, Minor in Civic and Community Engagement, Pennsylvania State University

Education, Culture and Society M.S.Ed (candidate), University of Pennsylvania, Graduate School of Education

Why I TEACH: I teach because I want to contribute to the development of our youth and help mold the next generation of critical thinkers.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: I like to read, write, watch documentaries (mainly true crime), listen to music, do community service with my sorority, and hang out with friends

My favorite city/place in the world: My favorite places are New York City and Philadelphia.

Michel K

BA in Spanish from Ohio University, Masters of Foreign Language Education from Temple University

Why I TEACH: I TEACH because I truly enjoy working 1-1 with students and seeing their growth from start to finish. I want to support students in their world language endeavors and all settings interest me.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: I read SO MUCH. I take my kids to soccer and basketball and baseball practices and games. I hike. I garden.

My favorite city/place in the world is: Mérida, México on the Yucatán peninsula.

Cooper K

BA in Sociology with a focus in Social Stratification from the University of Maryland, College Park

Why I TEACH: I teach because I love working with kids and believe that given the right assistance all children can thrive. I love working with students as a tutor because it provides me the opportunity to help serve others and have fun while doing so.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: In my free time I love to rock climb! Catch me outside or in an indoor rock gym.

My favorite city/place in the world is: San Francisco–so much potential!

Evan K

Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from University of Delaware

Matt L

Oberlin College, BA in Creative Writing

Why I TEACH: I teach to identify students’ specific strengths and needs, and to provide them with tools for holistic growth.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: You can catch me biking around Philly, noodling on the guitar, or preparing a maybe-overly-ambitious meal

My favorite city/place in the world is: New England! Specifically the many tranquil woods, streams, and swimming holes I was able to explore growing up outside Boston.

Ilana L

Bachelor of Arts in English Rhetoric & Creative Writing, SUNY Binghamton

Why I TEACH: Education enriches students’ lives and provides them with the tools and the confidence to become lifelong learners and creatives. School was also always a safe and happy place for me, and I want to create that same environment for my students.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: I’m usually spending time with friends, getting into outdoor adventures, practicing my banjo or cooking one of my favorite vegan meals!

My favorite city/place in the world is: Of my travels thus far, I’m most enchanted with any place I’ve been on the Mediterranean Sea. However, there’s no place like home, so I’d have to say that Philly has my heart right now.

Molly M

“BS Communications and Creative Writing, University of Miami
MS, Urban Education, University of Pennsylvania”

Why I TEACH: I teach because great teachers changed the trajectory of my life. I teach because learning is an act of liberation. I teach because our students deserve teachers who love and believe in them. I am privileged to be even a small part of my students’ journey to success.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: You can find me on the weekend playing with my child, serving at church, or curled up with a book.

My favorite city/place in the world is: Philadelphia is my home and the home of many of my favorite people. It’s real and raw and full of creativity.

Neda M

Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology, Temple University

Why I TEACH: I became a tutor because I love working with kids and being able to be a support system for them through their education

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: I like to spend time with my friends and enjoy the outdoors.

My favorite place in the world is: Anywhere I can be by the beach

Heather M

State University of New York at New Paltz, BA English

St. John’s University, MS Secondary English Education

Why I TEACH: Helping someone find their writer’s voice is a privilege; it’s humbling and exciting, and it’s what made me realize that I really could teach. I love words, and I love sharing my passion. I get super excited about grammar and etymology, about picking apart words and crafting the perfect sentence, and getting others excited about those things, too! I want to support students as they learn to wield the power of language.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: Pre-pandemic and pre-baby I would be singing karaoke like I’m in a serious competition. But now, I’m enjoying being a mama, exploring different neighborhoods (mostly looking for a good cappuccino and browsing thrift shops), and cooking or eating something hopefully delicious.

My favorite city/place in the world is: As a native New Yorker, NYC will always hold a special place in my heart. It has also set the bar way too high for my expectations of eateries and probably everything else. That said, I came to Philly on purpose and love it here. I also love upstate New York, particularly the Mid-Hudson Valley, where I attended college. I can’t really pick a favorite, though; I’m still chasing that perfect place and dream of finding it in future travels!

Mei M

Bachelors of Mathematics from Eastern University, with a minor in Astronomy

Why I TEACH: I am a firm believer that every individual deserves to have the opportunity to find and pursue their passions. TEACHing is not just about covering the content and passing exams, but also about helping the students find themselves through each lesson and each subject, and helping them carve a way for their educational journey and beyond.

On the weekends: On the weekends, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, and building relationships with new people. I also thoroughly enjoy reading, and discovering new places in Philadelphia. Catch me at a park or Barnes and Noble almost every weekend!

My favorite place in the world: Anywhere with a clear night sky! I have a deep love for constellations and the wonders of the universe.

Emilie N

Majored in Biopsychology at Thomas Jefferson University East Falls Campus

Why I TEACH: I want to take content that sometimes seems inaccessible and make it fun and accessible for everyone.

On the weekends when I am not teaching: you’ll find me in New Hope, PA enjoying ice cream at Nina’s Waffles.

My favorite city/place in the world is: Washington D.C; I love seeing the monuments while riding on electric scooters.

Crystal N

I earned my undergraduate degree from Shippensburg University, which is a BA in Human Communications with a minor in Psychology.  I then went on to pursue my graduate studies at the University of Pennsylvania, which is an M.S.Ed in School and Mental Health Counseling.

Why I TEACH:  I enjoy teaching and learning from the students I serve.  I believe, as an instructor, my students and I are a team and we work as such.  I love to see my students grow and develop as individuals and expand their creativity and mindsets in ways that can serve as change agents in this beautiful world.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching:  I enjoy listening to music, and exploring the outdoors by way of exercising or hiking.  Additionally, I love to watch a good documentary or read an interesting piece of literature that provokes critical thinking.

My favorite city/place in the world is:  The Pretty Place located in SC.

Maggie P

PhD in Urban Education with a Concentration in Science Education at Temple University; Masters in Animal Science at University of Delaware; Bachelors in Biology at University of Delaware

Why I TEACH: Maggie is committed to promoting educational equity by engaging students in real-world learning models that connect school learning to students’ lives.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: Outside of work, Maggie enjoys spending time with her husband and two boys, meeting up with friends, and going to local book clubs..

My favorite food is: Spaghetti Bolognese

Marco P-S

Bachelor’s Degree in Government (East Asian Studies concentration) from Harvard

Why I TEACH: When I was young, I struck gold with my teachers, many of whom encouraged my inquisitive nature. They guided me and really taught me how to think and process information, which I initially tried to pass on to my stuffed animals every evening, regurgitating what I had learned in Tae Kwon Do. As I matured and took on formal teaching roles, the desire to engage in this meaningful work stemmed from seeing my students develop and boost their confidence and forming mentor-esque relationships with as many of them as I could.

On the weekends you can find me: I can typically be found at PingPod, a table tennis facility in Old City. If not, I am either working on my start-ups, YouTube channel, or binge-watching Netflix TV shows, with medical dramas and crime/FBI/CIA thrillers heading my favorite types.

My favorite place in the world is: Shanghai, though Shenzhen is a close second. In terms of current beauty and futuristic possibilities, Shenzhen comes out on top, but my experience of visiting Shanghai in various capacities, including as a journalist, competition judge, and tourist, ensures the city remains my favorite, just. As an added bonus, the friend I remain closest to from my Harvard days was born and raised in Shanghai (actually graduated from UPenn Graduate School of Education).

Jordan P

Miki P

Penn State University, BA, Sociology, Minors- Japanese, International Studies; Saint Joseph’s University, MS, Elementary Education; Chestnut Hill College, MA, Educational Leadership

Why I TEACH: It is an honor and such a reward for me to witness students work hard, deepen their knowledge, and feel more confident in their learning. Teaching is always a unique and interesting journey!

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: Doing yoga, exploring the city, gardening

My favorite city/place in the world is: Nowhere specific, but I love being in nature, especially the woods

John R

Masters of Mechanical Engineering from Drexel University.

Why I TEACH: I became a teacher because it is so rewarding to share a piece of knowledge that becomes useful to another person.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: Rock climb, hike, hunt mushrooms, play board games

My favorite city/place in the world is: My garden. It’s the place I’m most invested in, and I’m really excited to see our fruit trees flourish!

Marly R

BA in Biology and Spanish, Saint Joseph’s University

Why I TEACH: I TEACH because I love helping students learn and understand different areas of education more. It is an amazing, symbiotic experience where as you teach the students material, they also teach you about other things. I have so much joy knowing that I have impacted at least one student and helped them along their journey of developing more knowledge that they can share with the world.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: On a weekend, you can find me with my friends doing new and different things in Philadelphia or other areas. Besides this, I love to watch movies, especially reruns and look at them from different perspectives.

My favorite city/place in the world is: My favorite city in the world is NYC, not just because I am from New York. However, NYC is beautifully filled with people from all different backgrounds, experiences, and aesthetics. The culture is so diverse and there are so many opportunities to take advantage of!

Riya S

Becca S

Joseph S

BA in Political Science, University of Pennsylvania and MA in Sociology, Princeton University

Why I TEACH: I started my career in education as a high school math teacher, and I fell in love with the work. Watching kids mature, chase big goals, and step into adulthood was extremely fulfilling, and I jump on any opportunity to support kids in their journeys. One of my proudest moments was starting a college trunk party program with my students in Arkansas that has raised lots of money and sent dozens of college-bound seniors off to campus with laptops, dorm room essentials, and school supplies. In the classroom, I love growing students’ confidence in math and helping them realize it’s a skill that can get them paid and allow them to better understand how the world works.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: I’m playing pickup basketball, reading, cooking, watching the Eagles, or hanging out with my wife and dog.

My favorite city/place in the world is: Philly!

Samiyah S

Currently Attending Community College of Philadelphia, Majored in Early Childhood Education

Why I TEACH: I teach because of the impact my teachers have had on me my entire life. No matter the relationship I’ve had with any mentor in my life I can say that I am grateful to have had them guide me through my educational journey. I teach because I’d like to make that same impact on the students around me. I enjoy growing and learning with students. I love to use my own experiences with learning to keep education engaging and inclusive.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: I enjoy all forms of art and expression. I am usually indoors creating something new and learning new ways to express myself through art.

My favorite city/place in the world is: Anywhere near water or in the sky. There’s something about the freedom in both the water and the sky that I truly enjoy.

Patrice S

Masters in the Art of Teaching, James Madison University
BA in Spanish
Minor in ESL

Why I TEACH: As a teacher, you have the opportunity to cast a pretty wide net of what you actually teach. Transferring the knowledge of a content you love is just one part of it for me. I also find great joy in empowering students to challenge what they thought was possible, to get curious about why they are learning, and to effort through those difficult problems, which in turn helps them build resiliency in life. Plus, that “aha moment” is just pure magic.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: Outside of the classroom, you can find me teaching/practicing yoga, exploring natural fabric dyeing and sewing, and jamming to 60’s music.

My favorite city/place in the world is: For a short time, I lived in Buenos Aires, Argentina, teaching English. The city was alive with music and had an awesome creative energy. It was truly inspiring to me and I hope to make it back some day soon.

Geneva S

B.S. in Biology, Temple University

Why I TEACH: I teach because I believe knowledge is a gateway to opportunity and there is always something that can be learned and unlearned.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: I love traveling. Seeing and exploring new places is a must and hopefully there is good food as well.

My favorite city/place in the world: Barcelona, Spain

Katherine T

BA, Clark University, Government
MS, University of Montana, Environmental Studies

Why I TEACH: My teaching style is rooted in my work as a Peace Corps Volunteer in West Africa, where I found that communicating and finding common ground was more important than anything else. After many years doing environmental outreach and classroom teaching, I am now a Philly-based tutor working with students who struggle with writing, reading, and speaking. I love working one-on-one or in small groups to provide the individualized attention so many students crave.

In my spare time: I like to see friends, walk the city with my dog, escape to quieter places, and just be with my family.

My favorite place: is Inverness, California, a foggy, magical place, where you can see elk, coyotes, seals, and otters.

Yoonnie T

B.A. in Education, University of Florida, M.Ed., University of Florida

Why I TEACH: I love connecting with students and using their interests to motivate and challenge them in learning.

On the weekends when I’m not teaching: On the weekends, you can find me at a local festival, exploring another town, hanging out with friends, or turning my kitchen into a bakery. I love to play volleyball, travel, and volunteer with local organizations in my free time.

My favorite city/place in the world is: This question is a hard one to answer. I think my favorite city in the world is The Big Apple. With its rich history, eclectic personality, cultural diversity, and countless offerings, New York City never ceases to amaze me.

Elena V

BA in Chemistry with a minors in Hispanic Studies and Gender & Women’s Studies, University of Pennsylvania; MS Ed in Secondary Education-Science, University of Pennsylvania; Project-Based Learning Certification, University of Pennsylvania; Certified Associate in Project Management, Project Management Institute

Why I  TEACH: I have always loved learning and have found joy in sharing my knowledge in various capacities—whether tutoring siblings and peers in math and science, coaching college freshmen through their introductory chemistry courses, or teaching 11th and 12th-grade chemistry, pre-calculus, and AP Calculus at Freire Charter School. These experiences have shown me that every student, regardless of age, has the potential to succeed when given the right opportunities and resources. I continue to teach because I believe no one is ever too old to learn and grow into the best version of themselves.

On the weekends when I’m not  teaching: I’m either at the gym, taking an art class at Fleisher, catching up on a show, or spending time with friends, family, or my pup, Pico <3.

My favorite food is: Teriyaki Salmon Bowl at the Sabrina’s on South Street