Tutor Spotlight: Ashley (MAEd Special Education and Teaching)
Ashley is a passionate tutor and educator with over two decades of experience working with students of all abilities. Her dedication to helping students overcome challenges, particularly those with learning differences, has shaped her career and inspired countless learners to reach their full potential. With her warm approach, specialized training, and deep understanding of students' unique needs, Ashley brings patience and expertise to every tutoring session.
A Passion for Teaching and Individualized Support
Ashley believes that every student can succeed when they have the right tools and support. Her experience working with students who have learning differences, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and specific learning disabilities, has taught her that no two students are the same. By getting to know each student's strengths and challenges, she tailors her approach to fit their individual needs. Whether working one-on-one or in a classroom setting, Ashley's goal is to create a safe, supportive space where students feel confident to learn and grow.
Over her career, Ashley has developed expertise in teaching students with learning and behavior disorders. She provides both academic support and essential life skills, helping students improve their organizational abilities, time management, and self-advocacy. From teaching students how to plan their work and ask for help, to guiding them through everyday tasks like navigating public transportation, Ashley's impact extends beyond academics.
Expertise in Executive Functioning
One of Ashley's strengths as a tutor is her ability to help students with executive functioning skills. Executive functioning refers to the mental processes that allow us to plan, focus, manage time, and complete tasks. For many students with learning differences, these skills can be difficult to master. Ashley’s approach to improving executive functioning is clear and consistent—she uses direct instruction to teach students how to stay organized, manage their time, and break down tasks into manageable steps.
Ashley understands that students who struggle with executive functioning need concrete strategies they can use in everyday life. She works closely with each student to build routines and strategies that help them take control of their learning. This empowers students to be more independent and confident in their abilities, both in school and beyond.
A Life of Balance and Joy
Outside of tutoring, Ashley leads a fulfilling life with her family. She enjoys spending time with her husband, 16-year-old son, and their Miniature Schnauzer, Lilly. In her free time, Ashley loves traveling to new places, knitting, and baking. Her hobbies give her a sense of balance, and she often brings that same calm and joyful energy into her tutoring sessions.
Ashley's personal interests allow her to connect with students on a deeper level, making her tutoring sessions not only effective but also enjoyable. Her ability to combine her love for teaching with her warmth and creativity helps create a relaxed learning environment where students feel safe to express themselves and tackle their academic challenges.
A Strong Foundation in Education and Specialization
Ashley's extensive experience in elementary education and specialized training in gifted and talented education, as well as learning and behavior disorders, give her a strong foundation for supporting students with diverse learning needs. She has worked with students of all ages, from young elementary learners to older students needing specialized help with executive functioning and learning disabilities.
Her certifications in elementary education, gifted education, and learning and behavior disorders allow her to adapt her teaching methods to fit each student's unique learning profile. Ashley’s students benefit from her broad understanding of how to engage learners of all kinds, whether they need help catching up in school, navigating social situations, or improving their executive functioning skills.
Making a Lasting Difference in Students' Lives
At the core of Ashley’s teaching philosophy is the belief that education should empower students to be confident, independent learners. She has a genuine passion for helping students overcome barriers, and her work has had a lasting impact on the lives of many. By equipping students with the skills they need to navigate school and life successfully, Ashley fosters independence and resilience.
Ashley’s teaching goes beyond academic support; she helps students develop the tools they need to face challenges with confidence. Her consistent and compassionate approach ensures that every student feels supported and understood, making her an invaluable resource for those who need extra help.
Ashley’s dedication to education and her deep understanding of how to support students with learning differences make her an exceptional tutor. Her ability to provide personalized instruction, build strong relationships, and offer practical strategies for improving executive functioning and life skills has helped countless students thrive. Whether she’s working with a student on math homework, guiding them through social interactions, or teaching them how to stay organized, Ashley’s approach is rooted in kindness, patience, and a true passion for helping others succeed.