Meet Our Teachers

Elementary School Teacher & Math Consultant

Sara founded Simple Steps Teaching in 2019 to provide personalized, confidence-building academic support to students in her community. A former classroom teacher with a background in psychology and education, she is passionate about helping children grow both academically and emotionally.

Sara specializes in math instruction and is trained in Orton-Gillingham Math, a hands-on, multisensory approach designed for students who struggle with math concepts, including those with dyscalculia. She is especially skilled at breaking down complex topics into manageable steps and using creative, engaging strategies to make learning feel accessible and rewarding.

In addition to academic content, Sara helps students strengthen executive functioning skills like time management, organization, and study habits. Her warm, structured approach creates a supportive environment where students feel understood and empowered to take ownership of their learning.

Sara is proud to be part of each child’s learning journey and remains deeply committed to helping every student reach their full potential.

Elementary & Special Education Teacher

Patti-Jo is an exceptional reading and writing teacher who brings deep expertise, creativity, and joy to every session. She specializes in providing personalized, one-on-one support to elementary-aged students, with a strong focus on developing literacy skills that build lasting confidence and academic success.

Using a variety of hands-on, multisensory techniques, Patti-Jo helps students strengthen fluency, decoding, spelling, and reading comprehension. Her instruction is grounded in proven programs like the Wilson Reading System and enriched with engaging strategies that make learning feel fun and accessible.

With years of classroom experience as a certified first-grade teacher and advanced training in both elementary and special education, Patti-Jo is skilled at meeting students where they are and helping them grow. Her nurturing, encouraging approach helps children feel safe, capable, and proud of their progress—not just as learners, but as thinkers and communicators.

Patti-Jo brings a contagious love of reading and writing to her work and is passionate about helping every child discover the joy and power of language.

Elementary School Teacher

Deb is an experienced elementary school teacher who brings warmth, creativity, and a deep love of learning to everything she does. She has worked with a wide range of grade levels, including students in GATE (Gifted and Talented Education) programs, and is known for her ability to build strong relationships and meet each child where they are.

Deb supports students across core academic areas—including reading, writing, and math—tailoring her instruction to fit the unique learning style of each student. Whether helping a child build foundational literacy skills, strengthen their writing, or grow more confident in math, Deb creates lessons that are both purposeful and engaging.

She also specializes in teaching executive functioning skills, which are essential for academic and personal success. Deb helps students develop strategies for organization, time management, task initiation, and study skills. Her calm, supportive approach helps even the most overwhelmed learners find clarity and structure in their daily routines.

Deb’s classroom experience, coupled with her deep understanding of child development, allows her to foster a safe and joyful learning environment. She has a gift for making learning genuinely fun while still holding high expectations and encouraging growth. Her ultimate goal is to help every student feel confident, capable, and excited to learn.

Elementary School Math Teacher

Lauren has brings nearly twenty years of teaching experience to Simple Steps across a variety of roles, including as a classroom teacher, math specialist, and math instructional coach. She is a lifelong learner, holding a Master’s Degree plus an additional 60 graduate credits. She brings her knowledge and skills to students in grades 2-6 in our program.

Lauren believes in learning math through inquiry. Problem solving, reasoning, mathematical discourse, and engaging games and activities are some key components that Lauren will provide to all students with whom she works. She values flexible thinking and conceptual understanding over rote memorization. Her mantra is “Calculate kindness into every equation.” She hopes to develop confidence and inspire a love of mathematics for all of her students.

Elementary School Teacher

Rachel is an experienced elementary educator with a strong focus on math instruction and executive functioning support. She is passionate about helping students build confidence through engaging, hands-on learning that meets them right where they are.

In her math instruction, Rachel uses a wide variety of strategies, tools, and visual models to help students truly understand concepts—not just memorize procedures. She incorporates games, technology, and interactive activities to make math both accessible and fun, helping even the most hesitant learners find success and enjoyment in the subject.

Rachel is also highly skilled in teaching executive functioning skills. She works with students to break down complex tasks, develop time management techniques, and create systems for staying organized. Her supportive, structured approach empowers students to take ownership of their learning and build habits that lead to long-term success.

Rachel’s calm, encouraging presence and wealth of practical strategies make her a valuable guide for students who need both academic support and skill-building tools they can use every day.

Elementary School Teacher

Lee has an expansive and well-tenured set of experiences that make her an amazing member of our Simple Steps elementary support team. With 24 years in education, Lee has enjoyed time teaching 1st, 2nd and 5th grade classes as well as focused services in Special Education and Reading Recovery. She’s exceptionally strong in providing her students diverse methods to access their education across strengths and needs. With a goal of the developmental and academic needs of children, Lee blends traditional research based instruction with experiential and multimodal approaches of presenting material so that all children gain understanding. By including games, visuals, concrete tactile experiences, she provides the student with lessons that instruct and create memories.

Lee holds a BA in English and a M.Ed in Elementary Education.

Elementary Math Specialist

Deb brings a great deal of experience and passion to our lower elementary programs, with more than 15 years as a classroom teacher and nearly ten as a Math Specialist for learners through grade six. She loves the hands-on application of math, utilizing varied manipulatives to fortify skills foundations and strengthen critical thinking.

Believing in a growth mindset and a mission to uncover the math brain that we’re each born with, Deb’s is incredible at making the struggle fun and productive and helping to better math minded understanding.

Deb holds multiple degrees and certification in mathematics, including a Masters from Simmons University, a Math Specialist License (MA) and as a Developing Mathematical Ideas facilitator.

Early Elementary Teacher

Erica joins Simple Steps with an incredible range of early elementary classroom experience as a teacher, where her experience reflected great passion for engaging, mentoring and inspiring growth in young learners. Holding Master’s and Undergraduate degrees in Education and Sociology, she is additionally credentialed with training in Sheltered English Immersion (SEI) and Developmental Reading Assessment (DRA) programs.

With the goal of drawing out “childhood superpowers” in all learners, Erica’s joy comes in connecting with learners through exploration of real-life learning aligned to their interests and strengths.

Outside of the classroom, Erica is involved in the arts and loves photography. She proudly serves as a member of her district’s Technology Review Committee, working to build digital responsibility in today’s students.

Elementary & Middle School Math Teacher

Karen has spent more than 20 years in education with the last 10 years focused on math education. She has been an ardent supporter of math education through her work in the classroom as well as her work as a math curriculum associate. Whether working with students in the classroom or as a math curriculum associate, her goal is to turn this passion into outcomes. The highest compliment and best outcome is when a student says,” I like math now because it makes sense.”

Karen’s approach to teaching includes a multidisciplinary approach. She draws from the math/literacy connection (topic vocabulary, reading and understanding word problems); using visual representations of a problem (through manipulatives, drawings, etc.) and establishing good math practices with an eye toward what a student will face beyond the current year. She has experience working with students from grades 3-7.

Elementary School Teacher

Molly's passion lies in delivering targeted, one-on-one intervention to support children in elementary grades using engaging lessons which her students love. She holds a BA in Elementary Education along with certification in math intervention. Molly has taught in 4 different states across the country including New Hampshire, Michigan, Texas, and Massachusetts. She has also taught in very diverse school settings from rural private schools to inner-city, at-risk charter and public schools.

Molly's teaching experience spans grades 1 - 5, resulting in many diverse teaching experiences which have lead to creative learning opportunities for her students. As an SEI endorsed educator who has taught many English Language Learners, Molly has a special interest in providing instructional access to all students.

Elementary School Teacher

Kerry brings many years of teaching experience to young learners, along with specialized degrees and studies to support reading intervention. She holds a master's degree in Reading and specialized training in Reading Recovery and Orton-Gillingham.

Kerry has a true passion for working with students in reading. Helping each child progress in all stages of their reading development. I believe in a learning environment that is accepting, engaging, and fun. In addition to teaching, she is a nature-lover with a love for her environment and the many animals that surround her.

Middle & High School Math Teacher

Paul is a favorite among our middle and high school students, known for his ability to make math engaging, approachable, and meaningful. With deep expertise across a wide range of subjects—including Geometry, Algebra I & II, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, and Calculus—Paul brings both clarity and energy to each lesson.

One of Paul’s greatest strengths is his ability to meet students exactly where they are. He has an exceptional eye for recognizing when a student is ready to be challenged and offers opportunities for deeper thinking and enrichment when he sees they can take the math a step further. At the same time, he knows just how to break down complex concepts into clear, manageable steps when a student feels overwhelmed. This balance makes him not only an effective teacher but also a trusted guide through the often-intimidating world of upper-level math.

Before his years in the classroom, Paul served as a tactical pilot and flight instructor in the U.S. Marine Corps and later as a company officer at Massachusetts Maritime Academy. His background brings a calm, focused presence to his teaching and a strong sense of structure that helps students feel supported and capable.

Paul’s commitment to student growth, his approachable style, and his ability to tailor instruction to a student’s needs make him a valued and highly respected member of the Simple Steps team.

Middle School Teacher

Roberta LOVES working with our middle schoolers and helping them thrive! With an incredible 43 years of experience as a middle school Learning Specialist, she brings unmatched knowledge and a remarkable ability to connect with students across subjects.

She does an outstanding job supporting neurodiverse learners, knowing exactly when to implement the right accommodation and when to provide that extra challenge. Her decades in special education make her an invaluable resource when it comes to understanding and supporting students with IEPs and 504 plans.

Roberta especially enjoys teaching math and firmly believes that “solving math problems is excellent exercise for the brain.” She does a fabulous job helping driven students find success in higher-level math classes, offering both support and enrichment to keep them engaged and growing.

She also specializes in ISEE test preparation—helping students build confidence, master the content, and learn practical test-taking strategies. Whether a child needs support, structure, or a challenge, Roberta knows how to meet them where they are and help them move forward.

Middle & High School Math Teacher

Meet our math guru, Steve! Specializing in middle and high school math, Steve joins us with +30 years of experience making math accessible to students across learning styles, and dual master’s degrees in Mathematics & Deaf Education.

Steve has taught at the collegiate level as well, further helping him to support young learners for a successful math career.

Beyond deep experience in algebra and other advanced math Steve has helped many children prepare for standardize testing including the SATs and MCAS.

Steve is a lover of dogs, music, faith and family!.

Middle & High School Math Teacher

Liz joins Simple Steps with nearly a decade of classroom teaching experience and experience across many levels of math. Helping students feel successful in their studies and gain confidence in math is Liz’s passion as an educator. At the core of her work, she believes that empowering students to believe in themselves is essential to success. Liz takes great care to familiarize herself with each individual student’s skills and gaps, bringing unique and extensive experience working with neurodivergent students, she's able to prepare and bridge the challenging to the next level on their journey.

Liz specializes in maths across the learning spectrum from late elementary, Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1 and Geometry. In addition her background in mathematics, Liz is a fine artist who received degrees from Bridgewater State University and the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.

Middle & High School Math Teacher

Rola is a highly experienced and dedicated math teacher with an impressive 23 years of teaching under her belt. She holds a bachelor's degree in mathematics and a master's degree in teaching high school math, showcasing her deep expertise and commitment to education. Rola is particularly confident in Algebra 1, Algebra 2, and Pre-Calculus, and her proficiency in these areas is evident in her teaching approach.

A bilingual educator, Rola speaks both English and Arabic, which enriches her ability to connect with a diverse range of students. Outside the classroom, she is passionate about reading and delights in exploring new culinary experiences, making the most of her free time. Her love for these activities reflects her vibrant and curious personality, adding a unique dimension to her role as an educator.

Middle School Writing & ELA Teacher

Devon brings more than twenty year of teaching experieace and passion to middle school teaching. As a teacher of English & Language Arts, Devon works to build a direct and trusting rapport with each of her students, helping each to see themselves as unique readers and writers.

Devon holds a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education and a Master’s in Education with focus in Classroom Technology. She holds multiple Massachusetts teaching certificates in English, Digital Literacy and Computer Science!

Devon is excited to work with students and families who need to build confidence in reading, writing and language arts. With her experience and knowledge, she is eager to help learners of all skills and background develop and grow as critical thinkers.

Middle School Teacher

Kelly taught math at the middle and high school levels in a public high school for five years before making the decision to leave teaching in the classroom full time and be at home with her four children. She homeschooled all four of them for their primary grades. She’s taught as an adjunct professor at several colleges and has tutored many students at the middle and high school levels in various math courses. She also teaches a math class at a homeschool co-op. Kelly really enjoys helping students find success in their math courses. She’s patient and understanding and likes to break down concepts her students are struggling with and go through them step by step to help them solidify understanding. She received a B.S. in Secondary Education and Mathematics from Gordon College and a Masters in Education with a concentration in Mathematics from Framingham State University.

Middle School Teacher

Justin Tucker brings nearly twenty years of experience as a dedicated middle school teacher. His teaching approach centers on creating trusting, safe, and enjoyable environments where students feel comfortable to explore and grow. Justin believes that fostering a love of learning is essential for nurturing lifelong learners, and he is passionate about helping kids discover their unique strengths and interests.

Together with his students, he embarks on a journey of curiosity and discovery, making learning an engaging and rewarding experience.

Spanish Teacher

Chastelyn has a true passion for working with children of all ages to help build confidence and mastery of the Spanish language! As a bi-lingual native of Puerto Rico, Chastelyn is fluent in both Spanish and English and able to help learners navigate between formal language and colloquial use as they navigate the academic curriculum and day-to-day use of the language.

Following collegiate studies at American International College, Chastelyn founded and still operates an enrichment program merging her passions for education and athletic coaching.Description goes here

Elementary & Middle School Math Teacher

Karen has spent more than 20 years in education with the last 10 years focused on math education. She has been an ardent supporter of math education through her work in the classroom as well as her work as a math curriculum associate. Whether working with students in the classroom or as a math curriculum associate, her goal is to turn this passion into outcomes. The highest compliment and best outcome is when a student says,” I like math now because it makes sense.”

Karen’s approach to teaching includes a multidisciplinary approach. She draws from the math/literacy connection (topic vocabulary, reading and understanding word problems); using visual representations of a problem (through manipulatives, drawings, etc.) and establishing good math practices with an eye toward what a student will face beyond the current year. She has experience working with students from grades 3-7.

Middle & High School ELA Teacher; College Essay Specialist

Janine has a lifelong passion for writing. With a BA in Communication from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, she built a successful career in Public Relations and Advertising, where strong writing skills were essential.

After a decade in marketing, Janine transitioned to education and has spent several years teaching middle school. In 2015, she joined Northeastern University as a Writing Specialist, where she helps students enhance their writing skills.

At Simple Steps, Janine provides tailored writing and reading support for middle and high school students, including coaching for those navigating the college essay writing process. She is dedicated to fostering confidence and creativity in her students' writing journeys.

Spanish Teacher

Erin brings nearly twenty years of experience teaching Spanish at the high school level in MA. She earned collegiate degrees in English & Spanish at Bowdoin and a Master’s in Education at FItchburg State.

Erin incorporates listening, speaking, reading, writing, grammar and vocabulary into each lesson to give students a rich, immersive language experience.

Erin has also worked as an academic mentor and tutor at the college level and loves learning about… learning! She hopes that the study skills and strategies that students gain can help them across disciplines and that they feel empowered to become lifelong language learners.  Erin has traveled to Ecuador, Argentina, Puerto Rico and Spain and loves finding ways to share her adventures abroad as part of the curriculum. 

High School Math & Science Teacher

With over ten years of teaching experience as a high school math teacher, Shawn offers his expertise in Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Geometry, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, and Physics up to the AP level. Shawn believes that all students can find success in math with the proper growth mindset and support. Shawn enjoys making the connections between math concepts and real-world applications. Shawn’s philosophy of demonstrating compassion, patience, and understanding in education fully supports the students journey to success.

Shawn has a B.A. in Mathematics, with a minor in Actuarial Science, Sheltered English Immersion endorsement, and an M.A in Educational Leadership and Administration. Outside of the classroom, Shawn enjoys spending time outdoors with his kids exploring new hiking or biking trails.

High School Science Teacher

For 33 years Jim taught fostered learning and a love of science, both in the high school classroom and as a Science curriculum Chairman for students in grades 6-12. In addition to tutoring, Jim also works as an educator at Bridgewater State University’s Center for the Advancement of STEM education, and in a variety of capacities for the Mass. Department of Elementary and Secondary Education related to the state’s standardized assessment, the MCAS.

Jim’s dedication to educating young people spans an incredible tenure and has been recognized by as the Massachusetts Science Teachers Association Science Teacher of the Year in 2022, and as a member of the Massachusetts Science Educator’s Hall of fame, where he also served as president for five years.

Jim has and incredible ability to connect both core and abstract concepts into applicable and memorable application, and a great sense of humor that is loved by his students.

High School Math Teacher & SAT prep Consultant

Stacie joins Simple Steps with a rich background in teaching mathematics to students in grades 9–12. She brings a wealth of knowledge and instructional expertise across a wide range of subjects, including Algebra, Geometry, and a special focus on AP Statistics.

Stacie also specializes in preparing students for the SAT. She uses data-driven analysis to review students’ score reports, identify areas of weakness, and tailor her lessons to target specific skills for improvement. Her approach combines focused instruction with practical test-taking strategies to help students build both confidence and results.

Her educational philosophy centers on developing strong problem solvers and resilient learners. Stacie is passionate about empowering students with the tools they need to approach math with confidence and perseverance—transforming challenges into opportunities for growth.

Executive Functioning Coach; High School History & Psychology Teacher

A dedicated educator with 34 years of experience, Bill has spent his career inspiring middle and high school students in the field of social studies. Specializing in AP U.S. History and AP Psychology, he employs executive functioning skills to enhance student learning and engagement.

Bill believes that each student is unique, and he crafts individualized tutoring plans to meet their specific needs. His ultimate goal is to foster confident and independent learners who are prepared for academic success.

Bill holds master's degrees from Bridgewater University and Providence College, further enriching his expertise and commitment to education.

High School Math Teacher

Renia joins Simple Steps Teaching with over 10 years of experience in teaching high school and middle school mathematics. She earned a Mathematics Degree from Siena College with a minor in Education, and went on to complete a Master’s Degree in Curriculum Development and Instructional Technology from SUNY Albany.

Renia is a dedicated classroom teacher who is passionate about ensuring students have a strong and solid foundational knowledge and critical thinking skills across mathematics, especially Algebra and Calculus.

Renia enjoys building a rapport with each of her students, and seeks to understand how they learn most effectively. This approach allows Renia to meet students where they are, building off their current knowledge in order to propel them academically.

Middle & High School Math Teacher

Meet our math guru, Steve! Specializing in middle and high school math, Steve joins us with +30 years of experience making math accessible to students across learning styles, and dual master’s degrees in Mathematics & Deaf Education.

Steve has taught at the collegiate level as well, further helping him to support young learners for a successful math career.

Beyond deep experience in algebra and other advanced math, Steve has helped many children prepare for standardized testing including the SATs and MCAS.

Steve is a lover of dogs, music, faith, and family!

Middle & High School ELA Teacher; College Essay Specialist

Janine has a lifelong passion for writing. With a BA in Communication from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, she built a successful career in Public Relations and Advertising, where strong writing skills were essential.

After a decade in marketing, Janine transitioned to education and has spent several years teaching middle school. In 2015, she joined Northeastern University as a Writing Specialist, where she helps students enhance their writing skills.

At Simple Steps, Janine provides tailored writing and reading support for middle and high school students, including coaching for those navigating the college essay writing process. She is dedicated to fostering confidence and creativity in her students' writing journeys.

Middle & High School Math Teacher

Paul is a favorite among our middle and high school students, known for his ability to make math engaging, approachable, and meaningful. With deep expertise across a wide range of subjects—including Geometry, Algebra I & II, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, and Calculus—Paul brings both clarity and energy to each lesson.

One of Paul’s greatest strengths is his ability to meet students exactly where they are. He has an exceptional eye for recognizing when a student is ready to be challenged and offers opportunities for deeper thinking and enrichment when he sees they can take the math a step further. At the same time, he knows just how to break down complex concepts into clear, manageable steps when a student feels overwhelmed. This balance makes him not only an effective teacher but also a trusted guide through the often-intimidating world of upper-level math.

Before his years in the classroom, Paul served as a tactical pilot and flight instructor in the U.S. Marine Corps and later as a company officer at Massachusetts Maritime Academy. His background brings a calm, focused presence to his teaching and a strong sense of structure that helps students feel supported and capable.

Paul’s commitment to student growth, his approachable style, and his ability to tailor instruction to a student’s needs make him a valued and highly respected member of the Simple Steps team.

Spanish Teacher

Erin brings nearly twenty years of experience teaching Spanish at the high school level in MA. She earned collegiate degrees in English & Spanish at Bowdoin and a Master’s in Education at FItchburg State.

Erin incorporates listening, speaking, reading, writing, grammar and vocabulary into each lesson to give students a rich, immersive language experience.

Erin has also worked as an academic mentor and tutor at the college level and loves learning about… learning! She hopes that the study skills and strategies that students gain can help them across disciplines and that they feel empowered to become lifelong language learners.  Erin has traveled to Ecuador, Argentina, Puerto Rico and Spain and loves finding ways to share her adventures abroad as part of the curriculum. 

Middle & High School Math Teacher

Liz joins Simple Steps with nearly a decade of classroom teaching experience and experience across many levels of math. Helping students feel successful in their studies and gain confidence in math is Liz’s passion as an educator. At the core of her work, she believes that empowering students to believe in themselves is essential to success. Liz takes great care to familiarize herself with each individual student’s skills and gaps, bringing unique and extensive experience working with neurodivergent students, she's able to prepare and bridge the challenging to the next level on their journey.

Liz specializes in maths across the learning spectrum from late elementary, Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1 and Geometry. In addition her background in mathematics, Liz is a fine artist who received degrees from Bridgewater State University and the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.

Middle & High School Math Teacher

Rola is a highly experienced and dedicated math teacher with an impressive 23 years of teaching under her belt. She holds a bachelor's degree in mathematics and a master's degree in teaching high school math, showcasing her deep expertise and commitment to education. Rola is particularly confident in Algebra 1, Algebra 2, and Pre-Calculus, and her proficiency in these areas is evident in her teaching approach.

A bilingual educator, Rola speaks both English and Arabic, which enriches her ability to connect with a diverse range of students. Outside the classroom, she is passionate about reading and delights in exploring new culinary experiences, making the most of her free time. Her love for these activities reflects her vibrant and curious personality, adding a unique dimension to her role as an educator.Description goes here

Spanish Teacher

Chastelyn has a true passion for working with children of all ages to help build confidence and mastery of the Spanish language! As a bi-lingual native of Puerto Rico, Chastelyn is fluent in both Spanish and English and able to help learners navigate between formal language and colloquial use as they navigate the academic curriculum and day-to-day use of the language.

Following collegiate studies at American International College, Chastelyn founded and still operates an enrichment program merging her passions for education and athletic coaching.

Executive Functioning Coach; High School History & Psychology Teacher

A dedicated educator with 34 years of experience, Bill has spent his career inspiring middle and high school students in the field of social studies. Specializing in AP U.S. History and AP Psychology, he employs executive functioning skills to enhance student learning and engagement.

Bill believes that each student is unique, and he crafts individualized tutoring plans to meet their specific needs. His ultimate goal is to foster confident and independent learners who are prepared for academic success.

Bill holds master's degrees from Bridgewater University and Providence College, further enriching his expertise and commitment to education.

Spanish Teacher

Erin brings nearly twenty years of experience teaching Spanish at the high school level in MA. She earned collegiate degrees in English & Spanish at Bowdoin and a Master’s in Education at FItchburg State.

Erin incorporates listening, speaking, reading, writing, grammar and vocabulary into each lesson to give students a rich, immersive language experience.

Erin has also worked as an academic mentor and tutor at the college level and loves learning about… learning! She hopes that the study skills and strategies that students gain can help them across disciplines and that they feel empowered to become lifelong language learners.  Erin has traveled to Ecuador, Argentina, Puerto Rico and Spain and loves finding ways to share her adventures abroad as part of the curriculum. 

College Advisor & Executive Functioning Coach

Alicia brings experience and dedication to Simple Steps, serving as an educator for more than two decades through many aspects of the learning journey in higher education and secondary settings.

Alicia is experienced both as an Assistant Registrar at Northeastern University and as a local district School Counselor. Her passion lies in helping students and families navigate the college application process, providing guidance on organizational strategies to meet deadlines and alleviate stress as well as offering support in applying for post-secondary plans. For more than 15 years Alicia has also served as Scholarship Coordinator at her school.

In addition to College Admissions, Alicia excels in helping high school students get organized, prioritize, and learn strategies to excel in their classes.n goes here

Executive Functioning Coach & College Advisor

With more than twenty years as an educator, Michele brings a highly credentialed experience to Simple Steps leading College Preparation & Consulting.

With leadership tenure from universities in Massachusetts, New Hampshire & Florida, Michele boasts experience in admissions, academic advising, counseling & disability services, athletics, international services and Title IX compliance. She currently serves as a high school guidance & college counselor, advocating for early college and dual enrollment.

College Advisor & Career Counselor

With over 20 years of experience guiding families, Dr. Tim Poynton is a trusted expert in college and career planning. He specializes in helping parents support their teens through what can often feel like an overwhelming and high-pressure process. Known for his calm, clear, and research-based guidance, Tim helps families cut through the confusion to focus on what really matters—making the right decision for each individual student.

Now a professor of counseling at UMass Boston, Tim teaches and mentors future school and career counselors while continuing to support families directly. He is also an instructor and the current Commissioner for the National Career Development Association’s Certified Career Services Provider (CCSP) program, where he plays a national leadership role in advancing the field of career counseling.

Tim’s practical, down-to-earth approach is showcased in his widely praised book, College Unmazed, which has helped countless families feel more confident and informed as they navigate the college search and application process. Whether through writing, teaching, or one-on-one advising, Tim is passionate about helping students explore their options and choose a path that truly fits—academically, socially, and emotionally.

College Advisor - Performing Arts Specialist

A passionate advocate for the arts, Danielle brings +20 years of teaching experience in dance & theater. She has danced and acted in Boston and New York, founded an award-winning performing arts program, written dance and theater curriculums, and is a master teacher in dance and theater.

Danielle has extensive experience in admissions offices, elementary schools, and performing arts programs. Currently, she is a curriculum designer at UMass Dartmouth and an adjunct professor in dance and theater at Bridgewater State University.

Danielle has a B.A. in Communications and Educational Theater, with a minor in Dance from Regis College, a M.A. degree in Dance and Dance Education from New York University, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership in Higher Education from Regis College.

College Advisor & Executive Functioning Coach

Alicia brings experience and dedication to Simple Steps, serving as an educator for more than two decades through many aspects of the learning journey in higher education and secondary settings.

Alicia is experienced both as an Assistant Registrar at Northeastern University and as a local district School Counselor. Her passion lies in helping students and families navigate the college application process, providing guidance on organizational strategies to meet deadlines and alleviate stress as well as offering support in applying for post-secondary plans. For more than 15 years Alicia has also served as Scholarship Coordinator at her school.

In addition to College Admissions, Alicia excels in helping high school students get organized, prioritize, and learn strategies to excel in their classes.

Middle & High School ELA Teacher; College Essay Specialist

Janine has a lifelong passion for writing. With a BA in Communication from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, she built a successful career in Public Relations and Advertising, where strong writing skills were essential.

After a decade in marketing, Janine transitioned to education and has spent several years teaching middle school. In 2015, she joined Northeastern University as a Writing Specialist, where she helps students enhance their writing skills.

At Simple Steps, Janine provides tailored writing and reading support for middle and high school students, including coaching for those navigating the college essay writing process. She is dedicated to fostering confidence and creativity in her students' writing journeys.

Special Ed. Advocate & Consultant

Mary brings a wealth of experience to Simple Steps as a licensed clinical social worker and certified Special Education Administrator. Mary’s work in special education spans three decades and was preceded by an M.Ed. in Counseling from Bridgewater State University and a Master’s in Social Work from Boston College.

She has served as both an Assistant Director of Special Education and Director of the Early Learning Center in her district, helping to bring positive impact avd change to hundreds of families during her tenure. She has a tremendous expertise in Special Education Law and accommodation plans such as Individualized Education Plans (IEP) and 504s, but nothing brings her more joy than helping a student find the support they need to be successful.

Educational Consultant & Advocate

Rachel brings great passion for family-centered support to Simple Steps Teaching. With more than fifteen years of teaching experience across elementary and secondary teaching levels, Rachel now specializes in Special Education support for families who can benefit from additional academic support (IEPs, 504s, etc.). Working to coach and educate families, Rachel helps to connect child learning style, needs and goals with supports and resources that can be furnished by schools to help foster better academic outcomes.

Rachel holds a Master’s degree in education, and is certified both as a classroom teacher and as a Special Education Administrator.

She’s versed in education from a parent, educator, and administrator perspective and aspires to share my knowledge and guide families on their educational journey.