Fun Facts

Hi! I'm Ilissa — a lifelong learner, passionate educator, and lover of all things creative and active. I bring energy and heart to everything I do, whether I'm helping a student tackle a tricky subject or diving into a great book.

Fun facts about me? I used to sing in a rock band (yes, really!), and while I’m no longer touring stages, I still love to sing whenever I can. These days, you’ll find me staying active with yoga, long walks, and regular workouts.

About Me

I am a passionate educator, lifelong learner, and proud mom of four amazing kids. I hold a B.A. in Jewish Studies and an M.A. in Psychology, which together give me a deep understanding of both educational content and the unique needs of individual learners.
With years of experience in teaching and educational leadership, I enjoy creating meaningful and engaging learning experiences that meet students where they are and help them grow with confidence. Whether I’m supporting a student one-on-one or designing larger programs, I bring a thoughtful, personalized approach to everything I do.

Balancing family life and professional life has given me a strong sense of empathy, patience, and creativity — qualities I carry into every teaching interaction.

Experience

Hi, I’m Ilissa — an experienced educator and program director with a strong background in teaching, curriculum development, and student engagement. I’ve spent my career creating dynamic, inclusive learning environments that support students’ academic growth and personal development.

I specialize in designing interactive, student-centered lessons that foster curiosity, build confidence, and promote critical thinking. Whether working one-on-one or leading group programs.

Approach

I believe that learning should be engaging, meaningful, and tailored to each learner’s needs and strengths. My approach is rooted in empathy, curiosity, and creativity, with a strong focus on building relationships and creating a supportive environment where students feel confident and capable.

I move away from traditional, lecture-style teaching and instead use interactive methods that promote active participation and critical thinking.