Northeast Seattle
Green Lake, Ravenna, University District, Northgate, Shoreline, Lake City
Stephen
I am a full-time tutor and educator. For more than ten years, I've been helping students of all ages develop their reading and writing skills, organization and accountability, and overall academic curiosity and confidence.
During that time, I've learned as much as my students have. My mom was a resource teacher who helped students with disabilities thrive in the classroom and later worked as an educational consultant for international schools: between my own experience and my regular "consultations" with her, I've developed a pedagogical approach that emphasizes relationship building, student-led discovery, and a growth mindset.
I hold a Master's degree in Creative Writing from the University of Washington and a Bachelor's degree in English and Philosophy from Concordia University in Montreal. As an undergraduate, I won the MacGuigan Essay Prize and the Compton-Lamb Memorial Scholarship. At the end of my Master's program, my creative thesis won the David Guterson Award.
I hold a Cambridge CELTA, a certificate in ESL teaching, and have taught in North America and South Korea, in classrooms and one-on-one. Additionally, I used to teach the verbal side of GMAT and GRE prep classes for PrepCorps, a former Seattle test-prep company.
Norah
I am a lifelong lover of language who is passionate about mentorship and education, so I look forward to helping you or your student grow as a reader, writer, and communicator!
I'm an east coast transplant currently pursuing a Master's in Library and Information Science at the University of Washington, with hopes to work as an academic librarian in the future. Prior to graduate school, I worked in publishing in New York City, so I have extensive professional experience finding books to suit a particular reader's taste and needs!
I have a Bachelors of Arts in English with a Citation in French from Harvard University, and a Masters of Philosophy in Irish Literature from Trinity College, Dublin. (I wrote my master's thesis on the plays of Samuel Beckett, but that doesn't mean I don't love a beach read!) I have experience writing and editing for both student and professional publications, and also have experience tutoring students in ACT reading and English, with a focus on holistic growth. I look forward to working together to help you or your student achieve your goals!
Ruth
I’m Ruth — a passionate and empathetic educator with a background in tutoring, teaching, childcare, and psychology. I specialize in helping students strengthen their academic skills and build confidence, self-awareness, and resilience.
I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Washington. Currently, I am a graduate student pursuing a degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Antioch University, in training to become a licensed mental health professional.
My background includes extensive experience working with children and neurodiverse students. As a peer mentor at Bellevue College, I provided both academic and social-emotional support to students with learning differences, including autism and ADHD. During the pandemic, I worked as an in-home educator, supporting distance learning and facilitating individualized sessions in language arts and math. Before beginning my graduate studies, I spent a year teaching English in Thailand, where I developed culturally responsive lesson plans and helped multilingual learners build confidence in their language skills.
My approach is warm, patient, and highly individualized. I believe learners thrive when they feel seen, understood, and encouraged. My tutoring approach emphasizes collaboration, reflection, and skill-building that extends beyond the classroom. I want my students to walk away not only understanding the material but also feeling empowered by their ability to learn, adapt, and grow.
Meera
I am currently a PhD graduate student at the University of Washington studying Molecular Medicine, and graduated from UCLA with an undergraduate degree in Molecular Biology and a minor in Biomedical Research.
My journey in teaching began almost 10 years ago, after I had been a competitive speller for 5 years and successfully competed at the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. in 2015. After my journey exploring, understanding, and dissecting hundreds of thousands of words, I wanted to teach students to think critically about the English language, and tutored almost a dozen students aged 6-13 1:1 over the course of 6 years to become competitive spellers. My students went on to do amazing things in and outside of spelling, winning numerous local spelling competitions and competing at the national level themselves.
As an avid speller and reader from a very young age, writing has always been an outlet and a source of expression for me. As I continued to explore various types of writing styles and genres through school, I peer tutored students for years in high school. Together, we learned what it meant to restructure pieces of work, organize thoughts, and most importantly, how to apply those skills to future writing.
I'm very passionate about working with young students and fostering their creative and technical writing abilities. Reading and writing are skills that I value incredibly in my life on a day-to-day basis and cultivating that ability to eloquently and accurately express oneself through writing is so exciting to me. I believe in collaborative learning and adapting course lessons & projects to a student's mindset, and to constantly evolve teaching styles and materials over time as a student grows. I look forward to working with students and parents to ultimately build effective communication skills, foster curiosity, and express themselves to the fullest!
Christine
I am currently a Ph.D. student in Clinical Psychology at the University of Washington. I graduated summa cum laude from Chapman University with a major in Psychology and a minor in Law, Justice, and Social Control. I have always loved reading and my passion for writing developed from my own desire to tell stories. I have nearly ten years of experience mentoring and tutoring students of all ages. I began tutoring as a high school freshman, working with elementary school students. I continued throughout college, helping students strengthen their essay writing and navigate the college application process. My goal of teaching writing is to have my students enjoy the process of storytelling. What I enjoy most about teaching writing is helping students discover their own voice and connect more deeply with themselves. As a graduate student, I see every day how important clear communication of ideas is. I’m passionate about teaching and look forward to supporting students as they learn to express their ideas with confidence.
Wesley
It is my honor to help students improve their clarity, organization, and confidence in writing. I have tutored and taught for 13 years ranging everywhere from third grade to university classes. This experience has allowed me to understand young writers and how they can be comfortable and productive in each session. I have honed specific exercises for every stage of the writing process and will arm my students with concrete writing moves, such as They say / I say theses, citation packages, and lexical cohesion, to name a few. We can also work on reading comprehension and note-taking strategies.
My academic journey started at little Pierce Community College and culminated in an MA in composition studies from Western Washington University. I gained some accolades and awards, taught at Western and Dartmoor and elsewhere, but ultimately I aim to be an approachable educator, even fun. Some of my hobbies include learning languages, such as Spanish, Portuguese, and German, and performing stand-up comedy. Both give me insight into some of my favorite things: writing, learning, and language. I look forward to empowering students to thrive in those same areas.
Northwest Seattle
Ballard, Fremont, Greenwood, Broadview, Wallingford, Magnolia, Queen Anne
Katey
I’m Katey (she/her), a teacher, writer, facilitator, and life-long student. My diverse interests and experiences are stitched together by a common thread: my words and my voice.
I received my Bachelor of Arts in Health and Societies with a minor in History from the University of Pennsylvania (summa cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa). I also hold a Master of Public Health from the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa. As an undergraduate, I won the Society of the College Prize for the best thesis in my major. I was a Public Health Journalism Fellow during my Master’s Program, and upon graduation, received the Pauline Stitt Outstanding Graduate Student award.
Over the past decade, I’ve worked in the public health sector, publishing in a wide variety of formats and styles. I have served as co-author, editor, and communications consultant to researchers in 12 countries, translating scientific papers and technical information into digestible content for government officials, advocates, and the public at large. I’ve also helped to create and deliver popular education courses – weaving together lectures, healing circles, and embodied activities – to university staff, with a focus on (re)indigenizing higher education spaces. In the classroom setting, I volunteered for two years as an adult ESOL teacher and for a year as a 1:1 tutor with elementary age students in the School District of Philadelphia.
I am also a yoga teacher and bring my understanding of the body-mind to the tutoring space, encouraging learners to be present and engaged. I love supporting learners in identifying their strengths and telling their stories.
I am fortunate to call Northern Virginia, O’ahu, and Seattle (dᶻidᶻəlaĺič) home. Outside of my working hours, I enjoy spending time outside, curling up with a good book, and singing.
Alec
I am an educator, tutor, and current graduate student with over a decade of experience supporting students in developing their reading and writing skills, organization, and academic confidence. My passion for teaching stems from my upbringing in a family where education was highly valued, and my grandmother's work in special education deeply inspired me. This background has shaped my belief in the importance of relationships and curiosity in education and the need to meet each student where they are in their learning process.
My journey as an educator began at Stanford University, where I earned my undergraduate degree with a minor in education. This academic foundation was enriched through my service with City Year AmeriCorps, where I taught English and history to secondary students in East San Jose.
Following that, I became a team leader at AJ Tutoring in the Bay Area, specializing in English, writing, and reading comprehension. I had the privilege of guiding elementary, middle, and high school students through their academic journeys. In addition to tutoring, I managed a team of over 15 tutors, which helped prepare me to effectively support students from diverse cognitive, linguistic, and cultural backgrounds.
Most recently, I served as a student success coach in Anchorage, Alaska with the Anchorage School District. Currently, I am pursuing a graduate degree in school psychology at the University of Washington. This path has allowed me to further my dedication to supporting students with educational needs, such as dyslexia, ADHD, and autism.
Outside of tutoring, I enjoy outdoor activities like paddleboarding and fishing, as well as spending time with my dogs. I am excited to be a part of the Write Seattle team, where I can continue to support students in developing their writing skills and finding their unique voices. My educational philosophy emphasizes student-led, collaborative learning, and I look forward to working together to support students and families in reaching their learning goals!
Lachlan
Hi there, my name is Lachlan! I work primarily with Kindergarten through 3rd grade learners. I’m now in my fourth year of teaching, and I bring over a decade of experience working with kids from preschool through high school. I moved to Seattle in the fall of 2023 and have been energized by the city’s creative community-centered spirit. I grew up in Los Angeles, where I earned my B.A. in Urban & Environmental Policy at Occidental College. I am now completing my Master of Education at the UCDS Graduate School of Education.
I draw from a wide range of evidence-based practices to meet each learner where they are, helping them find a ‘just right’ level of challenge that feels meaningful, engaging, and fun. Whether we’re exploring letter sounds, discovering new spelling patterns, developing efficient handwriting habits, or practicing reading aloud, my goal is always to help build strong foundational literacy skills.
I take time to understand what inspires each learner! Figuring out which topics, activities, and routines capture their curiosity helps me to design learning experiences that inspire them to grow with confidence and joy. I value building strong and collaborative partnerships with families to support both learning and wellbeing. I look forward to chatting with you to see how I might serve as a supportive guide in your learner’s literacy journey!
Blair
I am a teacher and creative writer with over five years of experience supporting students. The writing process is a source for curiosity and empowerment, and I like to show students how they’re already writers, and how writing enhances their creative and analytical skills. I look forward to helping middle schoolers, high schoolers, and college students gain confidence in themselves while they achieve their writing goals.
Recently I earned my MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Utah, where I taught undergraduate writing classes that covered argumentative and analytical writing, personal narrative, genre and media, and research skills. I earned my BA in Writing and Rhetoric from Hobart and William Smith Colleges where I held two peer tutoring positions — first as a Writing Colleague where I worked with students on the classroom level (like a TA), then as a Writing Fellow in the college’s writing center, where I met one-on-one with students from a variety of subjects and skill levels. I have also worked extracurricularly as a Common App college essay tutor, and my students have gone off to U Miami, Villanova, and the University of Denver. I am excited to keep working with students through Write Seattle across all stages of the writing process.
As a creative writer I am well-practiced in genres across fiction, nonfiction, screenwriting, and multimedia forms like video essays, photo essays, and book design. I plan to use this variety of forms in my tutoring sessions, and show students how analytical writing is creative, and how creative writing is analytical. Outside of teaching, you’ll find me exploring the Puget Sound region with my camera and my journal, especially if there’s a ferry involved. Much of my creative writing is inspired by naval history and environmental studies, along with my past as a competitive sailor, so I am always looking to learn more about these things (and Seattle is an ideal place to do so!).
Makenzie
I am a dedicated public school teacher with eight years of experience supporting students in grades K–12 both as a classroom and special education teacher. In addition to my classroom experience, I am a certified Reading Specialist and Dyslexia Interventionist. I bring a broad range of skills and expertise to my work with students and families. I deeply believe that literacy is a fundamental right, and I am committed to expanding access to high-quality, effective reading instruction for learners of all ages.
I earned a BS in Elementary and Special Education from Purdue University Fort Wayne and a MS in Literacy and Dyslexia from University of Central Arkansas. My approach to literacy is rooted in evidence-based practices aligned with the science of reading. I provide explicit, systematic, and multisensory instruction grounded in the Orton-Gillingham methodology to address specific skill needs in students of all ages. I collaborate closely with families to set clear goals, communicate progress, and create a supportive learning plan tailored to each student’s strengths and needs. I’m always thrilled to chat about all things reading! My goal with students is not only to improve reading skills, but also to build confidence, independence, and a love of learning.
Lila
Hello! My name is Lila, I am a reading and writing tutor born and raised in Seattle. Outside of work you will often find me hiking, quilting, and playing music with my friends and family.
I graduated Summa Cum Laude from Occidental College in Los Angeles with a bachelor's degree in Critical Theory and a minor in Comparative Studies in Literature and Culture. My educational focus allowed me to combine my love of literature with an understanding of the social and political power of the written word. In my undergraduate studies I honed my writing and research skills through a heavily writing based course load and was awarded best senior comprehensive thesis by my college. As a student I also worked as a one-on-one tutor with high school seniors on their college application essays. In my time as an essay tutor I helped students both with the organizational aspects of applications and to find their own voice and story through the writing process. I discovered a passion for making connections with students and helping them build confidence in their unique perspective and writing style. Whether it is working on technical skills like sentence structure, or working on the more creative level, I prioritize meeting the student where they are at, building a supportive and trusting relationship, and helping them gain the skills they need to write with excitement and pride.
After graduating college I worked as a remedial reading teacher for students ages six to thirteen, teaching twelve weekly classes and working with students individually outside of class time. In this role I worked on reading comprehension, fluency, and overall confidence. My experience teaching reading solidified my belief in the importance of equitable access to literacy education for all students. I feel passionate about making sure that every child has the necessary help and attention to succeed. I take a discussion and skills based approach to teaching in order to help develop a true love of reading in my students based on their own ideas and passions. I feel very lucky to share my love and joy for writing and reading with my students and I believe in the importance of developing these skills with enthusiasm and care. I look forward to working with students of all ages to develop confidence and trust in their own literacy skills.
Rachael
I am a graduate student at the University of Washington with a professional background in political organizing and Jewish education.
I earned my bachelor's degree in philosophy from Scripps College, where I was a finalist in their college-wide research paper competition, a fellow at the Scripps College Humanities Institute, and a peer tutor at the college’s writing center. As a tutor, I worked with students in one-on-one sessions to unpack and understand prompts, talk through their ideas, and effectively organize papers. I also built ongoing relationships with seniors working on undergraduate thesis projects, and led first year writing workshops with the writing center. After graduating with honors, I worked as a climate organizer with both secular and faith-based organizations, and taught students in grades 2-5 reading and writing in Hebrew. I am now a graduate student pursuing my PhD in communication at the University of Washington, where I continue to work with students on effective writing and public speaking.
Entering undergrad, I neither enjoyed writing nor believed I was any good at it. It wasn’t until my freshman year writing professor gave me the right mix of discipline and encouragement that I was able to see writing not as a source of frustration, but as a powerful tool for expression and persuasion. I love the opportunity tutoring gives me to share that same encouragement with other students, and I look forward to working with students of all ages on building their writing skills, confidence, and intellectual curiosity.
Lisa K.
For 35 years, as a middle school educator in the Seattle and Lake Washington School Districts, I have encouraged a strong classroom community where student voice and reflection drive the learning. My experience includes working with a diverse population of students—including highly capable, special education, and multilingual learners—across a wide variety of subjects, such as English, language arts, reading, writing, and social studies.
As a writing and reading tutor, I work with middle schoolers, high schoolers, and adults, encouraging them to express their ideas with confidence and clarity. I strive to create a patient, supportive environment where every individual, regardless of skill level, feels valued and understood. For me, the best part of tutoring is watching my students discover new skills, embrace challenges, and celebrate their accomplishments.
In addition to tutoring, I find joy in rowing on Lake Union, walking my dog, Henley, and reading.
Wendy
As a long time writer, reader, and educator, I am so excited to help students in my community discover their voices through reading, writing, and communication skills. I received my BA in English/American Literature and Creative Writing from Middlebury College in Vermont. Through my major, I specialized in local literary journalism and personal narrative essays. I worked as a writing tutor in college, and after graduation I worked as a college access coach, with a focus on the admissions essay process and ACT prep.
My work in public schools for the next several years led me to pursue my Master of Social Work at the University of Washington, where I graduated with my MSW and LSWAIC in 2023. I have worked with students K-12, supporting social-emotional skills and building confidence in and outside of the classroom. I love getting to know my students' stories and helping youth express themselves through writing and public speaking.
In my free time, I love running and rollerblading around Green Lake, writing and listening to music, riding my bike, and eating chocolate chip cookies in front of the TV show Survivor. I love talking about recent favorite books and movies, playing cards, and sharing a good laugh with friends.
Kaija
Hi! I’m Kaija, a creative writer and educator currently pursuing a Master of Arts in teaching English Language Arts. I have over five years of experience and am passionate about helping students discover their creativity, build a growth mindset, and develop the skills necessary to succeed in school and beyond.
I graduated summa cum laude from the University of California, Davis with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and English. As an undergraduate, I participated in the Critical Theory Honors Program, received the Pamela Maus Award for my creative work, and volunteered with the University Writing Program as a literacy tutor in middle school classrooms.
The next step in my teaching journey took me to the Czech Republic, where I obtained my TEFL certification to teach English as a second language. I lived and worked in Prague for three years, providing private lessons to a diverse range of students—ranging from elementary-aged to adults—and teaching English online. These experiences strengthened my ability to adapt instruction for different ages, language levels, and learning needs. I then went on to earn a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from Western Washington University. While there, I taught English Composition and served as the Nonfiction Editor for the Bellingham Review.
My teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that every student brings a unique perspective and set of strengths to the learning process. I tailor my lessons to meet their individual needs, drawing on their interests and goals to create engaging, effective, and (hopefully!) fun learning experiences. I enjoy working with students of all ages and look forward to helping them build confidence in their reading and writing skills.
Catherine
I am a lifelong bookworm. As a child, I loved exploring the library and discovering new worlds and perspectives. These books inspired me to experiment with my own writing and developed empathy in me and a hunger to learn more. I hope to pass that on to my students.
I have always loved working with children. While obtaining my BA, I spent a year student-teaching in a third-grade classroom. During that time I discovered a passion for education and literacy.
After my degree I spent five years as an early childhood educator. I built trusting relationships with children and worked to set foundations for early literacy skills. My favorite teaching tool is quality children’s literature. I love sitting down to explore a beautiful book with children and connecting it to our learning. I believe in tapping into children’s innate creativity and curiosity so that they become active learners. Once writing becomes a medium for self-expression and imagination, the possibilities are endless!
Nothing brings me more joy in life than learning and discovery, and I approach teaching as a fellow learner. My goal is to help each student discover a lifelong love for reading and writing that goes beyond academics and continues to develop and enrich their inner lives.
Central Seattle
Capitol Hill, Montlake, Madrona, Madison Park
Jesse
With a background as a professional copywriter, playwright, and teacher, I look forward to supporting students in growing their writing skills.
Born and raised in Seattle, I attended University Prep for middle and high school. I went on to study literature and theatre at the University of Chicago, where I graduated with honors. Taking on a rigorous liberal arts program fusing theory and practice, I took masters-level literature classes and completed an interdisciplinary honors thesis. Finally, as a senior, I received the Francis X. Kinahan Memorial Prize for my contribution to University Theatre.
After graduating, I spent a decade working in theatre as a playwright, director, and dramaturg (sort of like an editor for theatre). I also worked as a teacher at the Perry Mansfield Performing Arts School and Camp, where I taught creative writing, artistic process, and theatre to middle- and high-school students.
Pedagogically, I believe that clear writing and clear thinking are two sides of the same coin. Thus, I seek to help students deepen their thinking and critical thinking through the written word. I know that learning—especially in one-on-one education—requires a patient, shame-free environment where the student feels safe to experiment, get things wrong, and ask the “stupid” questions (there are no stupid questions!). I seek to bring empathy and curiosity to each student, to get to know them, and to support their writing!
Annie
I have over 6 years of experience working with students of all ages as a teacher, tutor, and coach. Regardless of the subject matter, I approach my work with students with humor, patience, and empathy to create a comfortable and safe space for them to grow. My goal is to create a strong rapport with students so I can better help them harness their strengths and support them through challenges, while creating a fun environment where they can take ownership of their learning.
My own reading and writing journey got off to a rocky start. I entered second grade unable to read, but with the help of two tutors I was reading at a 4th grade level and devouring books by the end of the year. My tutors created an environment that helped me feel more confident and empowered. Their help was transformational for me, my learning, and how I now work with students. I went on to graduate as a high school valedictorian and received a merit scholarship to study at Grinnell College, where I majored in English.
My first teaching experience was through the Grinnell Prison program, teaching a course on short stories to inmates at a women’s prison. Through this experience I learned the importance of creating a space where students can discover how their unique skills and interests can be applied to their learning. Since then I have run a study hall for international students, coached cross country, instructed summer camp sewing classes, and taught Spanish at the Northwest School. I continued working with students at an after school program in Arequipa, Peru, where I created a literacy program based on one-on-one reading and writing support. Upon returning to the US, I worked with young readers and writers at the Bush School as a first grade classroom assistant.
When I am not with students, you can find me running on trails, reading too many books at once, or experimenting with developing materials from kitchen scraps.
Juliet
I believe successful tutoring starts with connecting to each student’s unique interests. I aim to present even the most challenging or unfamiliar subjects in a way that sparks curiosity and enthusiasm. To do this, I take time to get to know each student – their hobbies, learning style and needs.
I completed a dual B.A. program between Sciences Po Paris (Political Science) and Columbia University (Evolutionary Biology) and recently obtained my M.Phil. in Human Evolutionary Studies at the University of Cambridge, where I received distinction on my master’s thesis.
Throughout college, I pursued opportunities to deepen my research and writing skills. At Columbia, I served as Editor-in-Chief of Sapient, the university’s undergraduate journal of biological anthropology, where I led the editorial board, and oversaw all aspects of publication. I also completed two undergraduate theses and was awarded the Senior Thesis Prize for my research on primate dental morphology.
My passion for writing and learning extends into my teaching. I’ve worked with preschool-aged to adult students in a wide range of subjects, including language learning, math, science, ACT/SAT test preparation, reading and writing. At Columbia, I was a teaching assistant for a large undergraduate class (Human Origins and Evolution), where I led osteology labs and discussion sections, and graded coursework. Here in Seattle, I work as a substitute teacher, an administrative assistant in a bilingual school, and I continue to be an active participant in academic research projects.
In every session, I aim to create a calm, encouraging environment where students feel empowered, and I am committed to helping students develop strong, lasting skills. I’m new to Seattle and excited to explore the region – and to keep encouraging students to find joy in learning and writing, one revision at a time!
Connie
My mother, who is an excellent math teacher, taught me that learning should be accessible, reciprocal, and, above all, enjoyable. The goal is that students gain long-term knowledge that will not only strengthen their skills, but also their relationship with the subject itself. Tutors, in turn, learn from their students' unique perspectives and leave with a better understanding of their individual needs.
Over the course of my tutoring career, I've worked with hundreds of students on a wide variety of projects, and I am deeply grateful for all the knowledge I've gained about writing skills, resources, and strategies. My tutoring experience began in high school, where I worked with middle and high school students on English, math, social studies, and the ACT/SAT. While earning my BS and MS in Computer Science at the University of Arizona, I tutored at the Writing Center for four years, and in my last year, I became the Graduate Assistant for our Graduate Writing Lab. In this role, I led a series of community-focused writing programs for students and created training materials to help certify tutors through the College Reading and Learning Association. I also facilitated my university's Girls Who Code club, teaching foundational coding skills to 3rd-12th grade girls/non-binary students to prepare them to enter a male-dominated field. In particular, I enjoyed the people-focused aspects of these roles while I worked towards my STEM degree.
In my day job, I work as a data engineer at a research laboratory. Outside of that, I like to spend my life playing board games, learning languages (Chinese and Spanish, currently), reading children's literature, and being with my friends.
Bruno
I am an SPS teacher with 10 years of experience as an educator and tutor, certificated in English and Language Arts, Reading, and English Language Learners. My work has primarily been as a reading interventionist, which includes dyslexia intervention, bilingual reading intervention (Spanish), and ESL, but I have also taught ELA 6th-8th and tutored SAT Math and Reading. My training and experience have allowed me to see reading and writing as skills that can be assessed, monitored, and remediated through research-proven methods and best practices.
As an ESL student and non-reader in childhood, I understand the challenges that students face as readers and writers. It was through my own experience in reading intervention that I became an avid reader and academically successful, so I believe whole-heartedly in data-informed instruction and in the benefits, beyond the classroom, of being a confident reader and writer.
I have a BA In English with honors and a BM in Vocal Performance with honors from the University of Texas at Austin and continued my education in pre-medical studies. I scored in the 99th percentile in the English portion of the ACT, in the 97th percentile in the writing portion of the SAT, and I was recognized by the NHRP as a National Hispanic Scholar. At UT, I was a finalist in the English Department Writing Contest in both fiction and literary criticism. My reading intervention training includes Wilson, Esperanza, 6+1 Trait Writing, and the Teachers College curriculum.
South & West Seattle
Beacon Hill, Columbia City, West Seattle
Quin
I am an experienced writer and educator with rich, varied experience in teaching students reading and writing. I graduated with degrees in English and Economics from Whitman College, where I also worked as a tutor and poetry instructor with middle schoolers. Since then, I've had the opportunity to teach in a variety of contexts, from a university in China to a public elementary school in Oregon, from early elementary through college. I received my MA in Elementary Teaching from Lewis & Clark College with additional coursework in ESOL, and I am a certificated elementary school teacher working on receiving my ELL and reading endorsements. Outside of my classroom experiences, I have also worked in educational equity positions at Whitman and UW Medicine. Reading and writing have meant so much to me in my life, and I love to bring that to others, whether through teaching foundational skills to an early elementary schooler, or helping a grown-up tap into their playful, creative side.
Outside of reading and writing, or teaching other people about reading and writing, I like to paint, play basketball, run, and make jokes with my friends.
Dan
I am an Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Seattle University. I find it incredibly rewarding to help students of all ages find their own love of thinking, learning, reading, and writing. When I say "all ages," I really mean it: I have taught writing & reasoning to seven-year-olds, retirees, thousands of college students, and many high schoolers. I hold a PhD from the University of Colorado Boulder. Thirty-three of my articles have appeared in peer-reviewed journals, and my book/monograph is forthcoming with Palgrave Macmillan. I have been teaching for fourteen years.
My students have gone on to some of the best colleges, medical schools, law schools, graduate schools, and professional careers. Younger students find out how much fun reading and writing (and chess) can be. They have stumped me at philosophy and beat me at chess. In fact, my students named me Turtle Prof because I encourage students to slow down their thinking. Write slowly. Write turtle-style.
I enjoy working with students on reading and writing skills, storytelling, logical techniques for analysis (reading, writing, math, etc.), preparing college and graduate school applications, chess (my United States Chess Federation rating is 2065), and writing and revising articles and book manuscripts.
Elyse
I’m a writer from the Seattle area with an MFA from the University of New Orleans. As a freelance environmental journalist and creative writer, I’m passionate about the natural world and the power of storytelling to forge connections.
At the University of New Orleans, I worked in the writing center, where I helped undergraduate and graduate students learn new techniques for reading, writing, and researching. There, I also tutored local high school students taking college-level writing courses. As a tutor, I often use visualizations, diagrams, and educational games for vivid, interactive sessions that build skills and confidence.
As a writer, I’ve learned from organizations including Bergen’s Center for Investigative Journalism and the Bread Loaf Environmental Writers' Conference. My writing has also been supported by Artist Trust, Seattle City of Literature, the Jack Straw Cultural Center, and the Fund for Investigative Journalism, among others. In 2025, I won First Place in the National Federation of Press Women Communications Contest for an article published in The Revelator, about the environmental impacts of Russia’s war on Ukraine. I’ve also been published in Slate, Zócalo Public Square, TriplePundit, and elsewhere. I love public speaking as well as writing, and have read my work at local events including Northwest Folklife Festival and One Ocean Week.
Olivia
I began tutoring philosophy at Whitworth University in 2013. Since then, I have tutored writing, reading comprehension, math, ESL, test prep, and study & organization skills at Green Lake Elementary, Hamilton International Middle, and Lincoln High School, as well as privately both in-person and remotely. I’m very familiar with young people struggling with academic anxiety and other stressors, and I’ve seen them improve and find confidence. I believe that writing skills are integral to basic communication, critical thinking, decision-making, and work. There is always a way to connect students with writing through their interests, and, by following their curiosity, I help them build a positive relationship with writing.
Most of my free time is spent reading, writing, singing, playing music, playing D&D, camping, and foraging for mushrooms.
Online Tutors
Lisa
I am an educator, tutor, and writer who is passionate about helping students develop their writing and reading skills. I believe the best learning is curiosity-driven, and I strive to create learning spaces where students feel encouraged to explore their ideas and ask questions. My teaching philosophy centers the growth mindset, and I frame challenges as opportunities to learn and always incorporate joy into my lessons.
I graduated with highest honors from the University of Colorado, Boulder with a degree in Psychology. My honors thesis investigated self-control and procrastination and earned a designation of summa cum laude. During my time as an undergraduate, I took as many writing and literature electives as I could, finding my passion in English.
Since graduation, I’ve been working as a tutor helping students in their English language learning, test prep (including the TOEFL, ISEE, SAT, and AP exams), and essay-writing skills. I also teach the Middle School Writer’s Workshop and Mechanics of Writing for Middle Schoolers courses at the University of Washington’s Youth and Teens Program.
Outside of teaching, I enjoy creative writing and was awarded the Thompson Writing Award as an undergraduate. Beyond writing, I love to paint, cook, go on walks through Seattle’s Arboretum, and spend time with friends and family. I’m excited to join Write Seattle and help students meet their learning goals!
Rowan
I’ve spent the better part of the last decade supporting students of all ages in developing their reading, writing, and researching skills. Empowering learners is my passion!
For the last four years, I taught literacy skills as a middle school Language Arts teacher in the Highline and Renton School Districts. Before that, I worked as a Studio Assistant and Coordinator at Western Washington University’s Hacherl Research and Writing Center. Here, I supported university students in their reading, writing, and researching work, and I trained others to do so as well. Both experiences gave me the opportunity to individualize instruction to a wide variety of students’ learning needs and interests
As a graduate from Western Washington University’s Honors Program, I majored in English Literature and minored in Spanish as well as Law, Diversity, & Justice; I graduated with a 3.9 GPA and was named WWU’s 2017-2018 Outstanding Graduate in English Literature. I also presented my senior thesis at the 2017 Pacific Ancient and Modern Language Association conference in Honolulu. Then, I completed my Secondary Education teaching certification from the Woodring College of Education with a 4.0 GPA.
My philosophy of education is oriented around a strengths-based approach to learning and an emphasis on joy! I believe genuine growth happens in a safe, supportive, and stimulating environment.
