#TeamCM: Tutors
Classroom Matters’ tutors are indeed the “Best of the Bay!” We hire experienced and proven tutors from top universities in the United States and abroad. In addition to a thorough background check, we provide intensive and ongoing training in our philosophy and approach to learning. Our tutors are dedicated professionals who are passionate about working with and supporting young people. Every Classroom Matters staff member receives ongoing training on how to support students with learning differences and cultivate executive functioning skills.
ALI VAUGHAN
she/her | In Center
Senior Level II
Ali grew up in Bakersfield, California, before finding her way up to San Rafael. She holds dual degrees from Stanford University in Art Practice and Art History, where she worked as a peer advisor, gallery guide, and as editor for the Stanford Anthology for Youth.
From a young age, Ali found that writing, history, and art had the ability to make her world feel vibrant, and she hopes that she can help students find similar curiosity and excitement for learning as a tutor. Her experience editing writing from students of all ages has allowed her to develop a patient, open mind for advice. As a tutor, Ali wants to help students feel confident and comfortable in understanding themselves and their talents while developing skills to feel organized, prepared, and resilient in the inevitable moments when school doesn’t feel inspiring.
In her off time, Ali enjoys making art, seeking out concerts, and taking classes to learn new things like woodturning, jewelry making, and ceramics.
Ali tutors writing, history, college application essays, HSPT/ISEE/SSAT test prep, SAT test prep, and executive functioning.
AMANDA BURKE
Director of Instructional Support
they/she | Online
Senior Level II
Amanda holds degrees from UC Berkeley in Art and American Studies, with a focus on racial identity development. In their 12 years as an educator, Amanda has taught art and high school English, mentored and supervised other tutors, and directed and worked with local community programs that combat white supremacy and serve youth.
Amanda is a down-to-earth and compassionate advocate who works side by side with students within an anti-capitalist framework to help them feel empowered as active learners in and outside of the classroom. They help students work with their neurotype, mental health, and disabilities while acknowledging and navigating systemic challenges as a team. With Amanda, students practice tapping into their inner strengths, community support, self-compassion, metacognition, and self-advocacy. Amanda builds meaningful connections with their students, who often return to work with them year after year!
In their spare time, Amanda likes to walk the Bay, get lost in new video game worlds, make art (at East Bay Slimes, where they make & sell slime for stimming and stress relief!) and advocate for Covid safety and universal masking as an act of solidarity with and care for immunocompromised and marginalized communities.
Amanda tutors K-8 reading/writing, AP English, AP US History, AP World History, college applications and essays, ISEE/HSPT test prep, SAT Verbal, life skills, and executive functioning.
ANGELA MOON
she/her | In Center
Senior Level II
Angela enjoys connecting to and understanding the stories of people. She has enjoyed her experience tutoring and mentoring North Korean refugees, K-12 students in Chicago, and high school students in Asia. Angela has both a bachelor's degree in anthropology from the University of Chicago and a graduate degree from UC Berkeley Law. She has used compassionate communication to connect deeply with people she has never met before! Her approach to tutoring and mentoring is to center the student's experiences while guiding their learning plans and goals. She values interactive approaches that include asking reflective questions, offering space to brainstorm, and engaging in meaningful conversation with a range of communication skills. In her personal life, she is passionate about authentic expression, connection with nature and community, healing, open inclusivity, and ideas for self empowerment.
Angela tutors college applications and essays, history, social studies, environmental science, world & English literature, creative writing, non-fiction essays, Korean (up to intermediate level), Mandarin (beginner and lower intermediate level), and executive functioning.
ANNA HENNING
she/her | In Center
Senior Level II
Anna grew up in California with parents who were educators, which led to her helping in their classrooms as she grew up. They are a source of inspiration for teaching. As a child she was constantly outside biking, hiking the local trails, climbing trees, and bodysurfing. She then attended CSU Monterey Bay and majored in Environmental Studies with a concentration in Education. She is currently attending National University and completing her Teaching Credential and Masters in Inspired Teaching. She worked at Ojai Valley School for two years and taught sixth grade science and social studies. Her teaching style utilizes a strong emphasis in experiential education, by creating real-world application of learning concepts. She has a love for the outdoors. In 2022, she created an outdoor program for a summer camp to inspire students to get outside and connect to nature while learning skills and having fun. Additionally, she has led student camping and backpacking trips. Her passion is creating experiences for students to become connected to nature and the outdoors through facilitating exceptional trips that create opportunities for social and emotional growth. You can catch her outside during her free time, trail running or surfing with her husband and dog Roo!
Anna tutors all subjects K-5 and executive functioning at all levels.
ARJUN GADKARI
they/them | In Center
Senior Level I
Arjun was raised in Portland, OR before moving to San Jose, CA. They grew up in homeschooled learning communities until attending De Anza Community College, where they began their involvement in community organizing and local politics. Earning an A.A. in Political Science and a Certificate in Leadership and Social Change. he then transferred to UC Berkeley, receiving a B.A. in Political Economy with a focus on International Environmental Policy in 2018. Arjun has deeply loved to teach, often greeting friends and parents in childhood with detailed lectures on their favorite books, video games, and science facts. Now, after nearly a decade of intermittent freelance tutoring and 3 years of professional tutoring, they continue to pursue a passion for helping learners expand their horizons. Arjun is all about collaborating in creative ways to understand the world and ourselves more fully, practicing critical thinking, empathy, and humor. With an ADHD diagnosis of their own, Arjun has strong personal experience with how a learning process or environment can conflict with students’ needs, and they center strategies such as mindfulness and habit building to best support each unique learner.
Arjun tutors chemistry, precalculus, coding/computer science, physics, AP exams, SAT/ACT, CPP, and executive functioning.
ASPEN DUBOIS
they/them | In Center/In Home
College Grad
Aspen grew up out in the countryside of Petaluma, California with many cats, chickens, oak trees, and blackberry brambles. At the beginning of 2022 they relocated to Vallejo and have fallen in love with the East Bay! In their free time, they love to sing, make visual art, write, and tackle any handicraft available nearby. Creative writing and analytical essays (yes, even written for fun!) completely consumed Aspen's afternoons and weekends throughout middle and high school. After realizing how much they even loved proofreading and editing their classmates' papers, they knew that education was the route to take. In 2021, Aspen graduated from Sonoma State University with a Bachelor's in English and a concentration on pedagogy. Their own struggles with executive functioning and accessibility in the classroom laid the foundation of their teaching philosophy, which focuses on individualized education plans crafted for every student.
Aspen tutors K-6 math, K-12 reading and writing, AP English, college applications and essays, and executive functioning on all levels.
AYISHA FRIEDMAN
she/her | Online
Pre-Degree
Ayisha was born and raised in Berkeley, California. She moved to Los Angeles to attend University of California Los Angeles as an Art major and History minor. Ayisha has worked as a pre-school and middle school teacher. Her passions include art, writing, history and long walks. She loves working with young people and finds excitement in learning alongside them. Her hope is for her students to feel comfortable to grow and be themselves through their education. Ayisha’s teaching style is caring, silly and creative.
Ayisha tutors history, English, and writing at all levels; AP US History; college applications and essays; and executive functioning.
BECKY GILLAND
she/her | Online
Pre-Degree
Becky grew up in Gainesville, Florida, raised with alligators, snakes, and Spanish moss. She currently lives in Tallahassee, Florida, and is in her fourth year studying economics, statistics, and mathematics at Florida State University. She has worked for several years with kids in grades K-8. As a child with ADHD in the school system, Becky dealt with her own executive function struggles. Now as an adult, she is passionate about providing guidance and compassion to young people with similar challenges. Becky hopes to provide an environment where students don’t feel embarrassed to rebuild from their mistakes. She firmly believes that it’s never too late to achieve your goals. Becky is an herbal tea connoisseur and a proud plant parent. When she isn’t tutoring, you can find Becky on walks with her friends, on her couch playing Stardew Valley, or in her room listening to Taylor Swift.
Becky tutors all levels of math, including calculus and statistics; economics; and executive functioning.
BELLA SCHARFF
she/her | In Center
College Grad
Born and raised in Oakland, California, Bella moved to Columbus, Ohio to attend Ohio State University. Now a proud Buckeye, she graduated with her B.A. in Political Science and minors in Mathematics and Addiction Studies. Bella’s longer-term goal is to attend law school and obtain her J.D. with a focus on Health Law. Bella found her love for tutoring during her time with the Students for Refugees organization at OSU. Bella has a passion for developing personalized instruction so she can help students discover their unique skills, learning strengths, and goals. Bella understands the importance of fostering a supportive and nurturing learning environment where students feel empowered to explore, question, and grow. She also understands the importance of helping students learn executive function skills so they can feel confident in their studies and avoid the stress of disorganization! In her free time, Bella can be found exploring the Bay Area with her sweet dog, Rosa. Bella loves board games, escape rooms, comedy, and the show "Survivor."
Bella tutors all K-8 subjects; algebra, pre-calculus, calculus AB, high school humanities, and executive functioning.
CARLY RAINÉ CANANT
they/them | In Center
Senior Level II
Carly was born in Fremont, CA, and grew up in the Santa Cruz Mountains with redwood trees, banana slugs, and newts. They identify as Queer and nonbinary and use they/them gender pronouns.
They support youth by bringing a warm presence and clear purpose to every session – they believe that students deserve to be heard, appreciated, and receive tailored guidance so they can build practical skills, increase subject mastery, and expand their capacity to respond to life with flexibility and a growth mindset. As a young person, they pursued improvisational theater, playing music, painting, and circus arts. They studied psychology at UC Berkeley and at the California Institute of Integral Studies.
When they are not in the tutoring center or online with learners, they support people of all ages to regulate and reorient their nervous systems toward wellness in private practice as a Polarity Therapist. They live in Berkeley with a wonderful dog who takes them on frequent walks. They enjoy time in nature, delicious food, playing games, and having conversations with their loved ones.
Carly tutors executive functioning at all levels.
CATHY ZHENG
she/her | Online
Pre-Degree
Cathy was born and raised in New Jersey and is currently studying political science at The College of New Jersey with a Prelaw minor. As a tutor, she aims to set her students up for both academic success and self-awareness. Her own experiences with neurodivergence have allowed her to understand how difficult and isolating school and other neurotypical-centered spaces can be. Because of this, Cathy is passionate about fostering vulnerability and exploration of how students learn and motivate themselves, so that they can better advocate for themselves at school and in life. In particular, Cathy loves talking about ways to increase distress tolerance, effective problem-solving, and healthy communication. Additionally, she enjoys helping students understand and assess their schoolwork and overcome their academic challenges. In her spare time, Cathy can be found playing video games, reading in coffee shops, and making slime.
Cathy tutors K-8 reading, writing, math, history, HSPT/ISEE/SSAT prep, and executive functioning for all levels.
DAVID GALES
they/them | In Center
College Grad
David is a Berkeley native with a Bachelor's in Religious Studies and Art History from Grinnell College, with a specialization in Islam, New Religious Movements, and modern and contemporary abstract art. They are particularly passionate about the written word, whether that's a well-crafted academic paper or an entertaining work of fiction. When they first arrived at college, they were convinced that they would end up studying Anthropology or English. However, they quickly realized that researching religion allowed them to study everything that interested them through a new lens, and that art was no different. In their free time, they enjoy running Dungeons & Dragons campaigns, writing stories, and playing the banjo. They're also heavily involved in the maker movement, and will happily talk your ear off about whatever they're currently working on.
David tutors middle school reading, writing, science, and social studies; high school humanities, including AP English, history, and psychology; biology, Algebra I, and statistics; and executive functioning.
DOMINIQUE McLEAN
she/her | In Center/In Home
Senior Level II
Dominique is an East Bay native, raised in Hayward, and a Bishop O’Dowd alum (go Dragons!). She has recently returned home after spending over a decade back east. She has a BA in Spanish from Hampton University with a concentration in business, a certificate in Spanish Translation from American University, and her Teacher’s Assistant certificate from the City University of New York. She started tutoring in the foreign language department during undergrad, taught adult ESL in Washington, D.C. and New York, and spent the last ten years tutoring, teaching, and mentoring. Her strengths lie in student empowerment, individualized instruction, and building a solid foundation for her students. When Dominique isn’t tutoring, you can find her reading, marathon training, spending time with loved ones, and exploring the Bay Area.
Dominique tutors all K-8 subjects, Spanish, high school English, algebra 1, HSPT/ISEE/ SSAT test prep, general test prep, college applications and essays, and executive functioning.
ELENA PECOT-ZUNIGA
she/her | In Center
Senior Level II
Elena is a Berkeley native and a graduate of Berkeley Unified School District's Dual Immersion Program. She graduated from Berkeley High with honors, receiving International Baccalaureate (IB) certificates in Spanish, English, and Mathematics in addition to a Seal of Biliteracy. A first generation college graduate, she received her Bachelor’s degree in Spanish with a minor in Education from UC Berkeley, where she is a member of the Sigma Delta Pi Honor Society. While in college, she enjoyed being a private Spanish tutor, an A.V.I.D. tutor, an after-school tutor, and a mentor. One of her favorite college experiences will always be studying abroad and learning Portuguese in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Elena has experience working at various law firms, as a Spanish language teacher at a K-8 Montessori school, and teaching math and Spanish at Bishop O'Dowd High School. She is extremely passionate about social justice and educational equity. She's experienced in working with students with learning differences. She is a highly skilled and goal oriented team player, with over 15 years of mentoring and tutoring experience. In her free time, Elena enjoys traveling, going on walks with her dog, painting, watching movies, trying new restaurants, and spending time with her friends and family.
Elena tutors all subjects K-8, all levels of Spanish, math through algebra 2, reading comprehension, and executive functioning.
ELENA SELK
she/her | In Center
Senior Level II
Elena was born and raised in the East Bay and recently returned there after living in Germany. She earned a BA in social work from San Francisco State University and an MFA in creative writing from CalArts. She is also the recipient of a Fulbright Journalism Grant. As a tutor, Elena likes to combine her background in mental and behavioral health counseling with her passion for writing to help students become confident learners and writers. She takes a strengths-based and collaborative approach to teaching, believing that just as she has tools and knowledge to share, her students have their own knowledge about their needs and experiences. More than anything, Elena wants her students to feel comfortable, heard, supported, and celebrated while they’re working with her. In addition to becoming stronger writers and learners, she also wants to help her students gain skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and self-advocacy. Her favorite part of tutoring is getting to know her students and all of their unique strengths and interests! Elena is a fiction writer and loves exploring mythology, fables, and history in her work. She likes to hike, draw, paint, and serenade her dog Benny when she's not writing or reading.
Elena tutors writing, history, and executive functioning.
ERIC YAMAGUCHI
he/him | In Center
Pre-Degree
Eric grew up in Boston, MA, before moving to UC Berkeley to study Bioengineering. He has previously worked as both a TA and a teacher in a web-development class for elementary-age students, and loves working with younger people to help them succeed. During the COVID pandemic, Eric founded a non-profit free virtual tutoring organization called LessonUp, aimed at connecting younger students in need of academic support, specifically those from underserved communities, with qualified high school tutors. He values the importance of interactive learning, and focuses on meaningful interactions that help him better understand the student's learning preferences, learning style, and prior knowledge. Eric was also heavily involved with FIRST robotics in high school, captaining the high school robotics team and mentoring a lower-level FLL (FIRST Lego League) team. He has passions for both life sciences and design, and loves the creative thinking involved in tackling unique real-world problems that juggle a multitude of factors. In his free time, Eric likes to go bouldering and street performing.
Eric tutors chemistry, AP Chemistry, SAT prep, and executive functioning.
FLORA JATHANNA
she/her | In Center
Senior Level II
Flora grew up in Mumbai, India until she was nine years old when she moved to Colorado Springs, Colorado. She recently relocated to Berkeley, California. Despite having her own academic struggles in her youth, Flora was able to earn an Associate Degree at the age of seventeen while concurrently enrolled in high school. Flora recognizes the benefits of having a strong support system; with the help of others, she later attended the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs (go, Mountain Lions!) where she earned both her B.A. in Psychology and her M.A. in Leadership with a concentration in Student Affairs and Higher Education. Supporting students is one of Flora's favorite pastimes and she is deeply passionate about education policy, specifically as it pertains to diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice.
Flora tutors math through college algebra and basic statistics, English, reading comprehension, writing, social sciences, biology, basic chemistry, and executive functioning.
GABE WILKIE-ROGERS
he/him | In Center
College Grad
Gabe was born and raised in Berkeley and attended Berkeley High and Maybeck before going on to get a B.A. in Theater from Reed College. He's been passionate about teaching for a long time, working as a K-8 and SAT tutor while in high school and college, and spending time as a volunteer TA in classrooms at Rosa Parks Elementary and Ruth Acty Elementary. Gabe prefers hands-on learning and works with students to identify where the challenges are so he can address the root issues. He has spent much of his life in the theater and is now working as a stage manager and educator at the Youth Theater Company. Gabe believes that theater teaches and refines a wide variety of incredibly useful skills. Those skills helped him navigate his ADHD and develop his own executive function skills. Gabe also has a deep love for words, wordplay, and the funny thing that is the English language. His under-graduate thesis was on the wordplay of Tom Stoppard's Arcadia, a play he will happily spend as much time as you like gushing about. When he's not teaching, Gabe runs and judges Magic: The Gathering tournaments at several local game stores, reads X-Men comics, and plays any board or card game he can get his hands on.
Gabe tutors all subjects K-8, high school English, drama, history, SAT/ACT test prep, and executive functioning.
GEOFF ZOEHFELD
he/him | Online
Senior Level II
Geoff grew up in Norwalk, Connecticut and moved to Berkeley during middle school. As a graduate of Berkeley High School, he has fond memories of the great teachers there. Geoff received his B.S. in Applied Mathematics at Columbia University and his M.S. in Mathematics at San Jose State University. Throughout his time in school, Geoff tutored mathematics extensively, and continued to work as a tutor after graduation. Despite his strong focus on mathematics, Geoff also has an appreciation for other languages and cultures, having studied abroad in China and Korea, in addition to growing up learning ASL. Although California has been a wonderful place to live, he misses the snow from the East Coast. In his spare time, Geoff enjoys playing badminton, learning languages, and curling up in bed with his cats while playing old school JRPGs.
Geoff tutors all levels of math, all levels of physics, and executive functioning.
HANNAH MILLER
she/her | Online
Senior Level I
Hannah grew up in the Bay Area. After graduating from Berkeley High School, she moved to State College, Pennsylvania where she is studying Nursing at Penn State. Hannah has always had a passion for childcare, working at multiple summer camps and as a tutor and nanny. She discovered her additional affinity for education through her work with campers ages 6 through 15. Hannah is attracted to math and science, having participated in robotics throughout highschool and continuing in the field of STEM into college. She enjoys being able to combine her love for kids and education through tutoring, working with kids grades K-8 in all subjects. In her spare time, Hannah enjoys hiking, playing Magic the Gathering, and playing with her cats.
Hannah tutors all subjects K-8, French 1-2, high school English, history, and biology (including AP), chemistry, and executive functioning.
HARPREET KAUR
she/her | Online
College Grad
Harpreet grew up all over the Bay Area and is living in Albany with her family as she prepares her medical school applications. She has a Bachelor of Science in Neurobiology, Physiology & Behavior from UC Davis. At UC Davis, Harpreet was the UC Davis Sports Medicine Student Internship Co-President for 3 years, where she enjoyed learning about rehabilitation under the team physicians and athletic trainers. Harpreet has always been captivated by the wonders of the natural world and the limitless possibilities that science has to offer. This passion drove her to pursue medicine, and in the process, Harpreet has enjoyed sharing her love of all things science with students. As a tutor, Harpreet has learned how to break a concept down to its most basic level so she can meet students where they are. She hopes to encourage her students to ask questions and develop a natural love of learning while helping to develop their executive function skills so they can excel in life beyond high school. In her free time, Harpreet enjoys painting and singing. She believes that taking the time to pursue creative endeavors creates the brain space to foster unique ideas. Harpreet also enjoys sports and weightlifting.
Harpreet teaches all subjects K-5, algebra, pre-calculus, calculus, chemistry, biology, anatomy, physiology, physics, and executive functioning.
JADE HOLLEMAN
she/they | In Center
Senior Level II
Jade grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, and holds a bachelor's degree in physics from Georgia Tech and a master's in physics from Florida State University. She recently moved to the Bay Area after working as a graduate student at the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory for the past eight years. When not performing laser/optical experiments to improve the efficiency of solar cells, she worked as a TA for a variety of different physics courses. There, Jade discovered the joys of helping students see how interesting and beautiful physics and math can be. Her approach to tutoring is focused on helping students build confidence and collaborating to help kids fail productively. In her spare time, Jade enjoys playing video games and board games with friends, making music, and learning about philosophy.
Jade tutors high school and college physics, high school and college math through calculus, and executive functioning.
JAKE WEEKS
he/him | In Center
Senior Level II
Jake grew up in the South Bay Area. He has a history degree with honors and distinction from UC Santa Barbara, where he worked as the music director for a local community radio station, wrote for a literary journal, tutored writing, and started a tie-dye artist collective. Jake has a law degree from the University of Virginia, along with two years of experience as a practicing attorney. These days, in his free time, Jake is an avid cartoonist, writer, and amateur bass guitarist.
Although he sometimes didn't love school, Jake has always found meaning in history, writing, music, and literature (especially comic books). As a tutor, Jake shares this enthusiasm with students, while always guiding them through academic difficulties with the humility and patience that comes with experience. Jake's ultimate goal is for students to feel more confident and capable.
Jake tutors writing, history, humanities, and executive functioning.
JEN CHINN
Administrative Coordinator
she/her | In Center
Senior Level II
Born and raised on unceded Ramaytush Ohlone land (Bay Area), Jen has had the privilege of working with youth for over 15 years. She holds Master’s degrees from UC Berkeley in Social Welfare and from Fordham University in Childhood Special Education. She is a warm, relational, and affirming tutor who meets students where they are at.
As a former elementary school teacher and school counseling intern, Jen could often be found making up songs, playing games, and finding creative ways to make the learning process more enjoyable. Unfortunately, Jen also knows what it’s like to feel othered, powerless, and self-doubtful. As a result, she is committed to co-creating a safe, supportive environment where students can expand, not shrink. Welcome to the judgment-free zone! This is a place to lead with curiosity and build confidence, while courageously taking on new challenges. Here, students are invited to bring their whole selves. Tapping into one’s own unique strengths, inner resources, and personal agency is highly encouraged.
In her free time, Jen loves being outside in nature, hanging with loved ones, working on creative projects, and watching anime, Drag Race, and sci-fi. She is learning how to skateboard – any tips are welcome!
Jen tutors reading, writing, and math for K-5; and executive functioning for all ages.
JOJO LYNCH
they/she | Online
College Grad
Jojo spent most of their childhood in Quito, Ecuador and Pasadena, California before moving to Tennessee at age 17 to go to Lee University. She majored in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) with a minor in Psychology. They also studied Political Science and Childhood Development. During her Senior year, she was diagnosed with ADHD, which shed light on why she learned differently than her peers. Now, Jojo is passionate about helping other neuro-divergent students succeed even if their symptoms fly under the radar. Because of her time working with nonprofits, they also try to approach every session through a holistic, trauma-informed lense. Their favorite thing to do with students is to have a “shake break” to help clear the mind, regulate the body and nervous system, improve focus, and help everyone feel comfortable. In their free time, Jojo can be found making jewelry, training her service dog, Sugar Bear, watching cartoons, or playing Animal Crossing. She volunteers at her local community theater to help lead a Queer Teen Support Group.
Jojo tutors Spanish, writing, and executive functioning.
JOMAR LOPES
he/him | Online
Senior Level II
A native of Fairfield, California, Jomar is a graduate student at San Francisco State University, studying to become an elementary school teacher and education researcher. He holds a B.A from SF State in liberal studies, with a minor in education. He found his love for teaching after spending three years volunteering in his little sister’s classroom. Jomar dreams of getting his Ph.D. in the near future, and plans to study cognitive sciences or urban education. He hopes to take his research back to Fairfield and open a non-profit to provide educational access and resources to low-income communities. In the meantime, Jomar serves as both a #RockstarTutor and college advisor, increasing aspiring students' access to college. He has previously worked as an instructor, education researcher, and writing tutor throughout the Bay Area. In his spare time, you can catch him watching anime or playing League of Legends.
Jomar tutors all subjects K-5; all middle school subjects except science; and high school English, history (including AP), and math through pre-calculus.
JUDAH LAMPKIN
he/him | In Center
College Grad
Judah is a recent Harvard graduate who studied philosophy, astrophysics, religion, history, and linguistics. He comes to Classroom Matters with extensive experience as a tutor who helps his students go beyond academics to explore their own hidden geniuses and motivations. As a lifelong student, Judah enjoys exploring not just the content areas he studied in college, but also new subjects that inspire him to continue to deepen his learning as a human. He is a composer, cellist, and vocalist who also plays several other instruments. For Judah, music is a vehicle for linguistic expression and a way to examine our own potential in life and in our learning.
Judah tutors English at all grade levels, history at all grade levels, music, physics (honors and AP), math (elementary school through 9th and 10th grade algebra/geometry), chemistry (honors), biology (honors), and executive functioning.
JULIA NEWTON
she/her | In Center
College Grad
Julia grew up in Berkeley and graduated from UC Santa Cruz with a B.A. in psychology. There, she worked at the Disability Resource Center, which ensures students get the accommodations they need, and helped lead a movement for a Disability Cultural Center. She is passionate about disability justice and providing tutoring that's holistic and affirming of students' identities. Julia loves to connect with students and strives to create a warm and supportive tutoring environment. She believes students are the experts on their own strengths, challenges, and learning styles, and enjoys working with them to meet their goals. She has experience tutoring students in grades pre-K through 12th grade. Her tutoring style is student-centered, engaging, and collaborative. Julia likes helping students connect what they're learning in the classroom to their interests and the world around them. In her free time, Julia loves to sew, crochet, take long walks around Berkeley, and spend time with family and friends.
Julia tutors all subjects K-5 and executive functioning.
KYLE KISHIMOTO
he/they | In Center
College Grad
Kyle is a UC Berkeley student originally from Southern California. He is a senior majoring in mathematics with a teaching concentration, with a minor in science and math education. After graduating later this year, Kyle plans to pursue a high school teaching credential to become a full-time teacher in the Bay Area. Through the CalTeach program at UC Berkeley, he has interned with many local math and science teachers to improve his teaching abilities. Kyle also works for the UC Berkeley Division of Data Science as the lead instructor for a large online data science course that brings Berkeley’s data science curriculum to thousands of learners across the world and has taught other on-campus data science classes to current students. Kyle hopes to use his wide range of teaching experiences to inspire an enthusiasm for learning in all his students. Outside of school and work, Kyle enjoys watching sports and riding his bike.
Kyle tutors all subjects K-8, high school math and computer science up to the AP level, and executive functioning.
KYLE LAURENTINE
he/they | In Center/Online
Senior Level I
Kyle was born and raised in San Francisco and grew up bilingual, speaking English and French. He’s been fascinated with language(s) pretty much ever since, having studied about 7 languages so far — most recently, wrestling with Japanese and the programming language Haskell. At Johns Hopkins University, he majored in film studies for a bit before switching to cognitive science, with a focus on linguistics and the philosophy of language. Kyle has over a decade of tutoring experience, working with students ranging in age from 4 to adult. He enjoys discovering each student’s unique skills, personality, and sense of humor as he helps them navigate challenging new material and shifting academic structures. He’s especially enthusiastic about language and math and the ways they connect! Outside of tutoring, Kyle likes to socialize with friends, including humans, dogs, and sea lions. He loves movies, drawing, and dim sum.
Kyle tutors K-12 reading and writing, French, math through 8th grade, formal logic, college applications and essays, HSPT/ISEE/SSAT test prep, and executive functioning.
KYLE MOSES
he/him | Online
Senior Level II
Kyle loves math and science and wants to share his enthusiasm for these subjects with everyone he meets. He believes they can provide a perspective of the world that is both illuminating and empowering. He graduated from UC Berkeley with bachelor’s degrees in physics and astrophysics, where he was fortunate enough to study both the very large, e.g. supernovae and galaxy formation, and the very small, fascinating world of quantum mechanics.
He has been a private tutor for more than 15 years and really enjoys delving into and exploring topics with his students. In his spare time he does a fair amount of math and physics, but also loves to read, write, play video games, watch movies, skateboard, play the piano and ukulele, rock climb, and go backpacking through nature.
Kyle tutors reading, writing, English for K-5, all levels of math, chemistry, and physics; astronomy, computer science, ACT/SAT test prep, HSPT/ISEE/SSAT test prep, and executive functioning.
LEXI BAYOT
she/her | In Center
College Grad
Lexi was raised in the Bay Area and recently graduated from a degree in Sociology with a minor in Education at the University of California, Berkeley. Throughout her education experience, Lexi was heavily involved in student leadership, where she discovered her passion for education and helping her community. Her goal is to be able to one day work within the education system as a teacher or counselor. Currently, Lexi is involved in the Pilipinx community at UC Berkeley, specifically the Pilipinx Academic Student Services (PASS). In her time at Berkeley, Lexi has been able to foster a better relationship with her Pilipinx identity, and she hopes to continue strengthening her understanding of her identity and community. As a first-generation Pilipinx student, Lexi hopes to use her experiences to empower the younger generation through her mentorship and guidance. In her free time, Lexi can be found spending time with family and friends, baking yummy treats, thrifting, and hanging out at the beach!
Lexi tutors all subjects K-5, college applications, and executive functioning.
LIAM CHAVEZ
he/him | In Center
Senior Level II
Liam is a dedicated, engaging, and experienced tutor. He specializes in working with diverse learners and students with special needs achieve their goals in academics, test prep, and executive functioning. Liam trained as a teacher at a Latino-majority high school and tutored K-12 students professionally for several years. In addition to Classroom Matters, he works as a Public Education Specialist at the Labor Occupational Health Program at UC Berkeley’s School of Public Health. He graduated from UC Berkeley with a B.A. in history focusing on the history of science, information, medicine, and Latin America.
Liam is proudly queer, Latino, disabled, and neurodivergent. He volunteers extensively with organizations promoting health, wellness, and education for vulnerable groups. In his free time, you can find Liam in the pool and/or the ocean with the Temescal Master’s swim team, knitting, singing & playing the piano, or enjoying a classic film.
Liam tutors reading/writing/English, Spanish, and history up to the college level; math up to Calculus AB (excluding statistics); chemistry, biology, and physics, including AP; college applications and essays; and executive functioning.
LUCA MARQUARDT
he/him | In Center
Pre-College
Bio coming soon!
LUIS TERRIQUEZ
he/him | In Center
College Grad
Luis is from Oakland, California and graduated with a BS in Human Biology from UC Santa Cruz. From a young age, he took a strong interest in the sciences which propelled him to look for a career in medicine. Although still keeping an open mind, he is strongly leaning towards becoming a radiologist as he studies for his MCAT exam. Luis also enjoys working with students as both a tutor and a mentor. With his passion for the sciences, he hopes to instill the same interest and curiosity in other students. His favorite subjects include biology, anatomy, and physiology. In his free time, Luis loves jamming out on his guitar, learning the bass, or watching anime (recommendations are always encouraged).
Luis tutors all levels of chemistry, biology, anatomy, physiology, and executive functioning.
MAYZIE ANGEL
she/her | In Center
College Grad
Mayzie was born and raised in California's San Fernando Valley. She earned an Associate Degree in Social and Behavioral Sciences before transferring to UC Berkeley in 2021. She graduated from UC Berkeley in the spring of 2023 with a B.A. in American Studies and wrote a senior honors thesis focusing on race, gender, and the body in American media and popular culture. During her time at Berkeley, Mayzie worked in multicultural organizations that focused on the recruitment and retention of first-generation, low-income students of color within higher education. She was a Girl Scout for 13 years and spent her summers working as a camp counselor at a Girl Scout camp. Looking forward, Mayzie hopes to continue in education for a while as an elementary school substitute teacher before pursuing grad school. She is extremely enthusiastic about film and television and hopes to eventually do some work writing for TV and film. She loves comedy, listening to podcasts, crocheting, drawing, painting, and cooking. Mayzie’s tutoring style centers on building students’ confidence and being an empathetic listener.
Mayzie tutors all subjects K-5, all levels of English Language Arts, reading, writing, literature, all levels of social studies, history, humanities, Spanish 1, AP Psychology, AP Art History, and executive functioning at all levels.
MELANIE EARLE
she/her | In Center
College Grad
Melanie grew up in New York City. She made the trek upstate to attend the University of Rochester, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and Bachelor of Art in Political Science. During her time at UR, she served as a program assistant for the university’s tutoring center and as a teaching assistant for the Mechanical Engineering Department, where she was awarded the department’s Teaching Assistant Award for her efforts as a TA. Melanie recently moved to the Bay Area to pursue a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering at UC Berkeley. In her teaching philosophy, she aspires to do more than just impart knowledge; Melanie aims to build a robust foundation for her students, enabling them to confront any challenge. Her passion for science and mathematics is infectious, and she strives to instill a sense of wonder, encouraging students to embrace curiosity, recognizing it as the catalyst for optimal learning. In her free time, Melanie loves to read. She’s currently tackling philosophy, poetry, and comic books, as superhero gadgets are what inspired her to be an engineer. She loves to be active and recently jumped back into practicing Muay Thai. A perfect Sunday for her is a cup of coffee and a long walk with her camera.
Melanie tutors all subjects K-5; middle school and high school math through calculus; middle school and high school English; physics, chemistry, history, and executive functioning.
MELENA JOHNSON
she/her | In Center
College Grad
Mel previously worked as a writing mentor for college students and found that she loves to work with young writers on subjects both new and familiar to her. She is a first-generation college graduate, and is passionate about helping students acquire the support and resources they need from educational systems that she knows aren’t always easy to navigate. Mel’s favorite part of being a tutor is getting to know her students, and working with them to curate academic skillsets that suit students’ individual goals and interests while empowering their voices. (She also really loves getting to read students’ writing, especially when it’s on a topic they’re passionate about!) She is a recent graduate of Grinnell College – born and raised in Iowa! – where she got a degree in Art History as well as Gender, Women’s, and Sexuality Studies. Outside of tutoring, Mel loves to cook almost as much as she loves watching competition cooking shows. She cares deeply about art and likes to make some of her own when she’s able to work through artist’s block. She also enjoys collaborative storytelling and tabletop role-playing games.
Mel tutors writing, art history, gender, women’s, and sexuality studies, and executive functioning.
MIRIAM TAYLOR
she/her | Online
Senior Level I
After growing up in the rural Pacific Northwest, Miriam earned her BA in Spanish and International Studies at the University of Washington in Seattle. Her most potent education, though, came from living and studying in Mexico and Peru. There, Spanish came alive as the conduit for stories of lives very different from her own, and opened a door into the rich Latin American & US traditions of Spanish-language literature, history, culture and activism. Miriam loves to see the magic of language at work as her students connect more deeply with their internal and external worlds through words in all their forms--written, spoken, and heard. A daughter of the Pacific, she currently lives on the coast of Oaxaca in southern Mexico. When not in a virtual classroom, you’ll find her working on her cob house, out on the town with her dog Simba, or eating some delicious Oaxacan cuisine (here’s looking at you, tlayudas and mole negro).
Miriam tutors all subjects K-5; all levels of Spanish, including AP; middle and high school English and history, including AP, HSPT/ISEE/SSAT test prep, and executive functioning.
NICK CHAN
he/him | In Center
Pre-Degree
Nick was born in the Bay Area and is currently a senior at the University of California, Berkeley. While spending most of his time in college doing research in an organic chemistry lab, he has realized his love for problem-solving and hopes to inspire others to find a similar joy. After graduation, Nick hopes to pursue life sciences consulting where he can help make an impact in the medicinal world by utilizing his passions for problem-solving and scientific analysis. He first began tutoring at his local public library during high school where he learned how enjoyable working with and helping others is. This experience led him to lead academic review sessions for first-year and second-year chemistry majors as the academic chair of his chemistry club during college. Nick hopes to share his love for learning with others in a welcoming and comfortable environment. In his free time, you can find Nick rooting on his favorite sports teams (go GSW!), playing golf, or watching his favorite rom-coms.
Nick tutors Math (up to AP Calc AB), science (up to 8th grade), chemistry (up to AP chem), and executive functioning.
NICO CHODOR
she/they | In Center/In Home
College Grad
Nico moved to the Bay Area from Los Angeles, CA just last year. In their junior year at UC Berkeley, Nico is working to complete a major in American Studies, together with a minor in Education. Their primary interests are language, race, and power in education policy, stemming from their experience with the CORE Humanities Magnet Program at Cleveland Charter High School. While this program opened her eyes to many different racial realities, finetuned their writing skills, and helped them come to terms with some of their own identities, CORE was also deeply flawed. Looking forward, they want to pursue their MA/credential through Berkeley Teacher Education Program, gain hands-on teaching experience in the classroom, and then ultimately work their way up to policy. Nico hopes to one day get a seat at the education policy reform table, specifically regarding the implementation of culturally relevant curriculum. She believes that her high school program was well-intentioned but that there has to be a way to present issues like race and gender that is all-encompassing. Nico has at-home tutoring experience, as well as generational teaching superpowers which they have inherited from two parents that have been teaching in public school her whole life. In their free time, Nico loves to read (mostly fiction). She works part-time at Barnes & Noble and enjoys watching movies with her roommates and their beautiful, sleepy fat cat Azuki.
Nico tutors all subjects K-5, Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and Pre-Calculus, and executive functioning.
NINA ZISKIN
she/her | In Center
Senior Level II
Nina received her M.A. in Education from UC Berkeley and got her credentials in ELA, special education, and counseling at UC Berkeley and SFSU. Nina also holds a reading specialist certificate. She recently retired from a 30+ year teaching career. Her extensive experience ranges from being a resource specialist/case manager for middle school students with IEPs to helping Ph.D. students edit their doctoral theses. Most recently, Nina worked with neurodiverse students in a reading intervention classroom. Since retiring, Nina has tutored students in grades 5-12 as well as college students. She connects with all students, including unconventional or reluctant learners and those who may have struggled in school or become discouraged. She believes all students are capable of learning and improving their skills with the correct instructional approach that respects their individual learning styles, preferences, and interests. Nina’s philosophy is that students learn best when they have a positive relationship with their teacher. For fun, Nina enjoys reading (especially science fiction, fantasy, and YA fiction), knitting, hiking, playing with her dog, and hanging out with friends and family. She used to be a whitewater raft guide and still enjoys getting out on the river occasionally.
Nina tutors students in grades 6-12 and beyond in English/language arts, reading, writing, homework help, executive functioning, HSPT/ISEE/SSAT test prep, and college-level writing, Spanish I, and executive functioning.
NOAH LEE
he/him | In Center
College Grad
Noah was born and raised in Fullerton, California. He recently graduated from UC Berkeley with a B.A. in computer science and pure mathematics. He initially found his passion for education through student teaching for an introductory college course for electrical engineering. Eventually, Noah found himself completing a CalTeach minor and is currently pursuing his education credential in hopes of becoming a high school teacher. In addition to being a passionate STEM educator, Noah enjoys embarking on culinary adventures via Youtube rabbit holes and likes long meditative runs whenever time allows.
Noah tutors computer science, math, and executive functioning.
NORTH CARPENTER
he/him | In Center
College Grad
North was born in St. Paul, Minnesota, and grew up in three different countries. He began tutoring in high school, and around the same time he was diagnosed with dyslexia and dysgraphia. He worked to help himself and his students find their own unique learning journey. After graduating from the Anglo-American School of Moscow, North attended Macalester College, where he received a BA in Economics and worked as a TA for three years. North understands that learning is not one-size-fits-all, and that education often requires self-advocacy. Therefore, he focuses his tutoring on encouraging questions, making material relatable, and self-directed learning. North enjoys getting to know his students and helping them achieve their goals. In his free time, North can be found baking, running his Dungeons & Dragons campaign, playing strategy games, and listening to history podcasts.
North tutors math, statistics, computer science, economics, and executive functioning.
PAM STELLO
she/her | Online
Senior Level II
Pam is from Massachusetts. She graduated with a B.A. in English from Mount Holyoke College and also attended Williams College. She went to UC Berkeley for graduate school; she has a M.A. in education and recently returned to complete her Ph.D. She has worked for many years as a tutor and education consultant in different areas of education, including K-12 reading, writing and research, math, test prep and college admissions. Before graduate school, she worked with young farmers in Burkina Faso as a Peace Corps volunteer, and she has continued to work on education, equity and environmental issues in the Bay Area. She is a member of the Board of Directors of Citizens for East Shore Parks and the Richmond Community-Owned Development Enterprise Board and is Co-Chair of the Pt Molate Alliance. In her spare time, Pam enjoys cycling.
Pam tutors reading, English, HSPT/ISEE/SSAT test prep, ACT/SAT test prep, and executive functioning.
RAJITHA N.
Online
College Grad
After moving around between India, Michigan and Ohio, Rajitha is now exploring the sunny shores of Southern California. Rajitha has struggled with their own executive functioning since they were young but were finally able to get the understanding and support they needed in college. They know from personal experience how much of a difference an empathetic and non-judgemental mentor can make and they hope to be the same for all students they work with. Rajitha has worked with 1st graders, college students and everyone in between. Their experience includes coaching 2nd grade kids as they ran around a cafeteria, racing to solve their arithmetic problems; teaching introductory Spanish to a 6th grade class; and explaining projectile motion to high school students after school. Rajitha has a Bachelor’s in Neuroscience. When they are not tutoring, you can find them working in a neuro-pharmacology lab, singing with their chorus or exploring a new crafty hobby.
Rajitha tutors all subjects K-8, math through Pre-Calculus, all levels of biology and chemistry including AP and IB, physics up to AP Physics 1, and Spanish 1 and Spanish 2.
RIVER BRADLEY
they/them | Online
Senior Level I
River has lived in California their whole life, and currently calls the Bay Area home. After transferring from Cabrillo College, they received a bachelor's degree in Psychology from UC Berkeley, with a minor in education and highest honors. Their teaching career began at Cal, where they tutored college writing, elementary level reading, and taught social dance. After graduation they traveled extensively to teach dance, and in 2019 they returned to living in the Bay full time. River is no stranger to struggling in school; they worked through challenges with executive functioning and a neglectful environment, so they know how helpful tutoring can be, especially with a holistic approach. As a trans, autistic human with ADHD, they love to help neurodiverse and queer kids navigate the demands of school and life. River creates a relaxing learning environment focused on the student’s needs, creative problem solving, and self-advocacy. When River isn’t teaching, they like to play video games, read, and ride their bicycle.
River tutors K-5 reading, writing, and math; reading, writing, English, psychology, algebra, geometry, HSPT/ISEE/SSAT test prep, and executive functioning.
ROSALIND DIAZ
Operations Manager + Tutor Supervisor
she/her | In Center
Senior Level II
Rosalind loves helping students build the skills and habits that support long-term academic success. Her tutoring style is infused with warmth, humor, and a lively spirit of curiosity. She works with each of her students to set reasonable goals and practice sticking to a plan over time. She especially loves to help young people feel more confident about their math skills and tap into the creative side of math.
Rosalind completed a Ph.D. in English at UC Berkeley, where she received two competitive awards for excellence and innovation in teaching. She holds a B.A. in English from Yale University. Both her parents are mathematicians, so she’s maintained her love of math through all those years studying English! In her free time, Rosalind enjoys surfing, swimming in the bay, and reading anything and everything.
Rosalind tutors math through pre-calculus, reading, writing, literature, French 1, ACT/SAT test prep, HSPT/ISEE test prep, and executive functioning.
SOPHIA AZEBE-OSIME
she/her | In Center
Senior Level I
Sophia was born in Nigeria and raised in Texas. She holds a degree in mathematics from The University of Texas, at Dallas. She is a certified math teacher with over 7 years of experience tutoring and teaching math. She is passionate about helping students learn math! She is patient, understanding, and always willing to go the extra mile to help her students succeed. Sophia loves helping her students see connections to math in the world around them. She is passionate about art, music, and languages. Sophia believes that math is a powerful tool that can be used to solve problems and make the world a better place. She wants her students to be able to use math to think critically and creatively, to communicate their ideas effectively, and to appreciate the beauty of math!
Sophia tutors algebra, geometry, pre-calculus, PSAT/SAT , ACT , and executive functioning.
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