Hello! My name is Ms. Olivia. I am pursuing a degree in elementary education with endorsements in special education, English Language Learners (ELL), and the International Baccalaureate (IB) program at Loyola University Chicago. My educational journey has been shaped by hands-on experience and a passion for equity and inclusion in education.

I’ve worked as a substitute teacher in Fairfield Public Schools for three years and as a student observer and small group teacher in Chicago Public Schools for the last three years. In these roles, I’ve led interventions, conducted assessments, and worked closely with K–5 students across academic levels. I specialize in fluency and comprehension interventions, special education math, and interdisciplinary literacy support. I am also trained in ESL coaching and the TouchMath system, which supports students with diverse learning needs.

My teaching approach is evidence-based, student-centered, and holistic. Every child can succeed when given the right tools, support, and encouragement. I aim to foster a love for learning by creating engaging, personalized lessons that incorporate students' interests, movement, and creativity. I collaborate closely with families, specialists, and students to ensure that learning is tailored to the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally.

I am proud to graduate with an IB endorsement, which supports a global, inquiry-based teaching mindset, and an ELL endorsement, which equips me to work with students from multilingual backgrounds.

Outside of tutoring, I enjoy rock climbing, creative activities around Chicago, and traveling—though I’m not a big fan of flying! A fun fact about me is that I’ve visited 12 cities in the past four years. I love finding ways to bring global and multicultural perspectives into the classroom.

A quote that guides my teaching is from educator Rita F. Pierson: "Every child deserves a champion – an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection, and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be."That’s how I approach every student I work with—with belief, care, and dedication. I look forward to supporting your child’s growth and helping them thrive as learners and people.

As one of my former students once said, "Summer school work is like a fun vacation. Can you be my teacher forever?" -A 5th grader said this, once having disliked learning. I can’t wait to help your child feel the same way!