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 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 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 School Teacher

Kelly has more than 26 years of classroom teaching experience in early elementary teaching, and is passionate about teaching and learning for early childhood learners.

Her teaching supports learners and families through visual, auditory and movement strategies, filling tool boxes with learning strategies to build confidence and positive learning engagement. Game based learning is her favorite!

She look forward to working with your child and your family.

Elementary Teacher & Reading Specialist

Caitlin is a dedicated reading specialist with extensive experience helping elementary students become confident, capable readers. Specializing in structured, evidence-based literacy instruction, she has deep expertise in phonics, decoding, encoding, fluency, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. Caitlin is particularly skilled in supporting diverse learners—including students with ADHD and dyslexia—by creating personalized learning plans that build on their unique strengths and target key areas for growth.

Rooted in the belief that every child can learn to read with the right encouragement and instruction, Caitlin creates a warm, engaging environment where students feel safe to take risks and ask questions. She takes pride in guiding struggling readers past obstacles, turning challenges into breakthrough moments, and celebrating every milestone along the way!

Elementary Teacher

Heather is an elementary educator with over ten years of experience helping students in grades K–5 build confidence and reach their full potential. With specialized licensure in Early Childhood, Elementary (1–6), and Special Education (Mild/Moderate), she excels at tailoring her instruction to support a wide range of learning styles and needs. Heather is passionate about creating a supportive, structured environment where learners feel encouraged to ask questions, master foundational skills, and grow into capable, independent thinkers.

Heather holds a Master’s degree in Elementary Education, bringing both deep pedagogical knowledge and practical, specialized strategies to every session. Outside of teaching, she loves spending quality time with her three children, taking her dog, Bauer, on long walks, visiting the beach, and unwinding with a good book!

Elementary Teacher

Brittany is an Intervention Specialist with over ten years of experience supporting elementary students in grades K–6 across all four core subjects. Having built her educational career from the ground up—starting as a versatile substitute teacher before specializing in targeted academic intervention—she excels at identifying unique learning needs and meeting students right where they are. Brittany creates a supportive, encouraging environment where young learners can master foundational skills and build lasting confidence.

With broad expertise spanning reading, writing, math, and science, Brittany is passionate about helping every child achieve meaningful growth. Outside of teaching, she loves spending quality time with her family and getting lost in a good mystery novel.

Elementary Teacher

Mary is an early elementary educator with over 20 years of classroom experience helping students in grades K–5 build a strong foundation for learning. Guided by her belief that strong rapport is key to academic success, she tailors every lesson to incorporate each child’s unique interests and needs. Mary excels at finding the sweet spot where learners feel both fully supported and appropriately challenged, using hands-on materials, math manipulatives, and educational games to bring key concepts to life.

Whether strengthening decoding, fluency, and comprehension in reading or mastering essential operations and problem-solving in math, Mary crafts targeted learning experiences that inspire confidence. She takes pride in turning skill-building into an enjoyable journey and looks forward to partnering with families to help every child thrive!

Elementary School Teacher

With 35 years of teaching experience in Easton, Robin brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to Simple Steps. Throughout her career, she has taught Kindergarten through third grade, developing deep expertise in early childhood education, mathematics, reading, and writing.

Robin holds a Master’s degree along with additional graduate-level education in Early Childhood Education. In addition to her many years in the classroom, she has extensive experience tutoring students and teaching summer school, giving her a strong understanding of how to meet children at their individual learning levels and provide the support they need to grow.

Robin especially enjoys helping young learners strengthen their skills in math, reading, and writing while making learning engaging, approachable, and enjoyable. Her supportive teaching style helps students build both academic skills and confidence. Her goal is to give each child the strategies and encouragement they need to become confident, successful, and increasingly independent learners.

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

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 & 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 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.

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 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

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.

High School Science Teacher

Christine has over 15 years of teaching experience at both the high school and college levels. She currently teaches Biology and Chemistry, including AP Biology and AP Chemistry, and also serves as the advisor for her school’s STEM Club. Christine earned her Bachelor’s degrees in Chemistry and in Biochemistry before completing her Ph.D. in Molecular and Cellular Biology. Her background as both a researcher and educator allows her to bring practical scientific applications into her teaching, helping students connect concepts to modern discoveries and innovations. Her educational philosophy emphasizes curiosity, critical thinking, and hands-on exploration. She encourages students not only to master core content, but also to develop the problem-solving and collaborative skills needed for success in science and beyond.

High School English Teacher

Kelly is a high school English teacher with over 21 years of experience helping students in grades 9–12 grow into confident, capable readers and writers. She believes that every learner thrives when given structured guidance, visual tools, and strong executive functioning support. Whether guiding students through foundational writing and reading comprehension or challenging advanced learners to dive into deeper literary analysis, Kelly builds an encouraging classroom environment where students feel empowered to take risks and grow.

Kelly earned her Bachelor’s degree in English from the University of New Hampshire—where coaching peers at the campus writing center first sparked her passion for teaching—and later received her Master’s in Teaching English from Bridgewater State University. Outside the classroom, she loves getting lost in a good book, going for walks, and cheering on her kids at their sporting events!

High School Math Teacher

Jaime is a high school mathematics teacher with six years of experience helping students build genuine confidence in Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 2. Having spent years working in trade and technical schools with students who have previously struggled with academics, she firmly believes that every learner can master math with patient guidance and steady encouragement. Jaime specializes in breaking down intimidating topics into clear, manageable steps, creating an empowering environment where complex concepts become approachable—and even enjoyable.

Jaime earned her Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from Wheelock College in Boston and her Master’s degree from Eastern Connecticut State University. As a former collegiate athlete, she draws on the discipline, persistence, and coaching mindset she learned on the court to support her students' academic growth. Outside of tutoring, she loves staying active, cheering on her favorite sports teams, and celebrating her students' lightbulb moments!

High School Math & Physics Teacher

Jack brings an extraordinary 49 years of teaching experience to Simple Steps, having spent his career teaching physics and astronomy at the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI). His extensive background gives him a deep understanding of scientific concepts and the ability to help students make sense of challenging material.

Throughout his career, Jack taught a broad range of physics courses, from general physics and astronomy to specialized physics courses designed for students studying radiography and sonography. This experience has allowed him to connect physics to practical, real-world applications and help students understand not only how scientific principles work, but why they matter.

With nearly five decades in the classroom, Jack brings an incredible depth of knowledge and experience to his work with students. He is able to support learners as they strengthen foundational skills, work through complex physics concepts, and develop the confidence needed to tackle higher-level science.

Jack is excited to bring his years of experience to Simple Steps and help students approach physics and science with greater understanding and confidence.

Executive Functioning Coach

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 & 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.