My Approach
Hi there! I’m Kelly.
I’m so pleased you have landed on my page!
I have been an educator for my entire career, and I am committed to the success and well-being of my students. When students are preparing for the ISEE or SSAT, they are in a time of transition in their lives. Whether the entire family is moving, or the student is simply changing schools, it is time of change. The results of the exam hold significant value in what happens next for the student and the family.
At the heart of my teaching is the belief that all students want to be successful. It is my job to help students reach those levels of success–on the ISEE and beyond. As humans, we are motivated to work hard when we feel a sense of progress and growth, when we feel cared for, and when we feel joyful. In my lessons, I am keeping these human needs in mind. I personalize my instruction to best meet these needs of my students.
Relevant skills and experience
- 12 years classroom teaching experience in American grades 5-9.
- Experience teaching in high-performing charter, independent, and international schools.
- Significant experience working with learning different students, in classroom settings and 1:1.
- 12+ years specializing in the ISEE and SSAT and the admissions process.
My teaching philosophy has its roots in my charter school teaching experience in New Haven, CT. In its early days as a high-performing model charter school, Amistad Academy was where I developed my practice, my beliefs, and my passion for education. Following that experience, I taught middle school at the Punahou School in Honolulu, HI, and the American School in London. Since 2011, I have been working with students internationally and in the US to prepare for the ISEE and SSAT.
MY Commitment
I am fully dedicated to my profession as an educator and test prep expert. When I’m not working with students who are preparing for their ISEE and SSAT, I am liaising with other professional educators and test prep experts, and other leaders in my industry. I edit test prep materials, I stay current with trends and research on independent schools, neurodiversity, neuropsychology, educational technology, and I am committed to continually deepening my effectiveness by reading books and articles that challenge and improve my teaching. Most recently, I’ve begun creating my own materials for test prep as well.
Sounds like the right fit? Get in touch!