Meet Our Teachers

Elementary School Teacher & Math Consultant

Sara created Simple Steps Teaching in 2019 to help bring confidence-building and child-centered academic support to families in our community after years as a classroom teacher.

With degrees in Psychology (B.A.) & Education (M.Ed.), and teaching certification in the state of Massachusetts, Sara has found great joy in serving both the academic and social/emotional needs of children in our program.

Elementary & Special Education Teacher

Patti-Jo specializes in delivering tailored one-on-one services to support children in elementary grades. She holds a BA and MEd in Elementary & Special Education respectively, along with Advanced Graduate Certificates and trainings in literacy and the Wilson reading program.

With years of classroom experience as a certified first grade teacher, Patti-Jo brings a wealth of diverse and fun strategies for literacy-based intervention & remediation, and a passion in helping all students develop positive self-esteem and love for learning.

Elementary School Teacher

Deb has enjoyed working with children for as long as she can remember. Teaching is undoubtedly one of her life-long passions. She has been in education since 1990 and has taught grades 2, 3, 4, and 6 as well as GATE (Gifted and Talented Education). Educating and developing the “whole” child (socially, emotionally, as well as academically) is the cornerstone to her success as an educator.

Deb has a BA in Elementary Education from Boston College, a M.Ed in Curriculum and Instruction from Lesley University and a CAGS (Certificate of Graduate Studies) as a Reading Specialist from American International College.

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 has 13 years of experience teaching at the Elementary level with a primary focus in Math and Science. She loves engaging and hands-on learning that allows all children to feel successful. Rachel has a passion for teaching math using endless strategies and tools to help students understand the meaning of a problem. Incorporating technology is one of Rachel’s goals to allow students to experience math in different ways! With her tool box of games and hands-on activities, Rachel is able to help students love math. Rachel has a BA in Elementary Education from Assumption College, a M.Ed in Special Education from Lesley University.

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.

Early Elementary Teacher

With over 25 years teaching experience across elementary grades, Michelle brings deep expertise to our younger learners across reading, writing and math!

Michelle holds a Bachelor’s from the Univ. of New Hampshire in Early Childhood Education & Family Studies, a Masters in Early Childhood Education from Bridgewater State and a Sheltered English Immersion endorsement.

Her passion though, lies in the science of reading and she works to incorporate multimodal learning to engage student senses. Manipulatives, games and technology are wonderful tools for education that help Michelle develop a love of learning among her students.

Middle & High School Math Teacher

Paul is a favorite of our students in middle and high school grades. Known for his ability to display math in an engaging and approachable way, Paul is an expert in Geometry, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, Algebra I, Algebra II and Trigonometry. Before many years as a teacher in the high school classroom, Paul worked as a company officer at Mass Maritime Academy and was a tactical helicopter pilot and fixed wing flight instructor in the Marine Corps.

Middle School Teacher

Roberta LOVES working with our middle schoolers and helping them succeed. After 43 years as a middle school Learning Specialist, Roberta brings deep knowledge and ability to uniquely connect with students across curricula!

Roberta has a BA in English & Education from SUNY at Buffalo and a MA in Special Education from Northeastern Univ.

She greatly enjoys teaching math and firmly believes that “solving math problems is excellent exercise for the brain”

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. 

Executive Functioning Coach & Head 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Stacie joins Simple Steps with a rich background in teaching mathematics to students in grades 9-12. She holds a Bachelor's in secondary mathematics education & Master's Instructional Technology from USF.

Stacie brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to helping students excel in their mathematical pursuits, with an instructional repertoire over a wide spectrum of subjects, including Algebra, Geometry and a special focus on AP Statistics.

Stacie's educational philosophy revolves around cultivating students into adept problem solvers and resilient learners. She firmly believes in empowering her students with the skills to tackle mathematical challenges with confidence and perseverance.

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 of our students in middle and high school grades. Known for his ability to display math in an engaging and approachable way, Paul is an expert in Geometry, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, Algebra I, Algebra II and Trigonometry. Before many years as a teacher in the high school classroom, Paul worked as a company officer at Mass Maritime Academy and was a tactical helicopter pilot and fixed wing flight instructor in the Marine Corps.

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 & Head 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Executive Functioning Coach & Head 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.