Our Tutors
History
Sam Leewood started tutoring in 2005 while studying for his Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics at Depaul University. Initially he enjoyed working with students one on one and found tutoring to be a great way to work part-time while he focused on his studies. After graduating from DePaul Magna Cum Laude in 2007, he decided to take his talents to UIC and earn a Master's Degree in Civil Engineering with the goal of working as a Structural Engineer. Upon graduation, Sam realized he had developed a real passion for helping students reach their full potential. This made the decision to focus on tutoring full-time an easy one, and Sam has been working independently full-time ever since.
Sam decided to officially launch Leewood Learning in 2017 in order to expand services to more students in a variety of subjects. With a range of backgrounds and areas of expertise, the experienced tutors bring skills of all sorts to the tutoring table. While we strive to get your student the help he or she needs, we make it a point to make the learning fun and engaging.
Let's Learn.
Leewood Learning tutors want to help you or your child to realize full potential. Contact us today to learn more about our rates and availibilty.
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President/Lead Tutor
Sam Leewood
The founder of Leewood Learning, Sam has over 18 years of one on one tutoring experience. He brings a fun and creative approach to working with students of all ages. Sam takes pride in finding out what clicks with each student, no matter what type of learner they are. By finding a student’s baseline and then building from the bottom up, Sam is able to help his students see the light and truly know why, not just how, problems are solved.
Sam currently resides in the Bucktown neighborhood with his partner, Lily, and cat, Phil. His hobbies include cooking, woodworking, yoga, playing piano, and playing basketball.
Education
DePaul University
Bachelor's in Mathematics, 2007
University of Illinois at Chicago
Master's in Civil Engineering, 2011
Math, science, and test prep tutor
Emily Schafer
Emily is a Midwest native from Grand Rapids, MI now enjoying city life in Chicago. She graduated from Vanderbilt University (Go 'Dores!) with a B.E. in Biomedical Engineering and Neuroscience and is now a PhD Candidate in Biomedical Engineering at Northwestern University. Emily's graduate research is in the field of bioelectronics, combining the worlds of materials science, electrical engineering, and biology to make new medical devices. She loves sharing science far and wide with all types of people - she even hosts a science podcast and runs an outreach program giving science talks at local senior homes!
In her free time, Emily enjoys being outdoors (backpacking, camping, kayaking, you name it!), reading, and playing with her cat, Olly. She also coaches field hockey for grades 1-6 for Windy City Field Hockey.
Education
Vanderbilt University
Bachelor of Engineering in Biomedical Engineering and Neuroscience, 2018
Northwestern University
PhD Candidate in Biomedical Engineering, expected 2024
Math and Test Prep Tutor
Malia Hu
Malia is an alumna of Northwestern University (2014) and the Kellogg School of Management (2016). She was a double major in theater and economics at Northwestern and earned an MS in Management Studies from Kellogg. After working for a few years as a media planner in digital advertising, where she supported some of the largest B2B and B2C business portfolios, she returned to her roots as an artist. Malia has been teaching standardized test prep since 2019 and loves helping students gain confidence with material as well as recognize and reach their goals. She especially loves making math a more approachable subject for students.
In her free time, Malia enjoys exercising, trying new recipes, and searching for the best ramen in Chicago.
Education
Northwestern University
Bachelor of Arts in Theater and Economics, 2014
Kellogg School of Management
Masters in Management Studies, 2016
Math and Test Prep Tutor
Lisa Scott
Lisa grew up in Kansas City, MO, where she discovered her passion for teaching and mentoring while working as a Teacher's Assistant and eventually Assistant Director at Summer at Barstow. Lisa also has an undying love for traveling and learning about the past, which only deepened while she pursued her PhD at the University of Chicago and lived in Prague, Czech Republic, while doing research as a Fulbright Fellow. Since completing her PhD, Lisa has focused on her own academic and popular writing, tutoring, providing childcare, and trying not to forget the languages she's learned.
In her free time, Lisa plays go and volunteers with the American Go Association. She also takes every opportunity to visit new places, and is proud to say that she's been to five new countries in the past two years.
Education
Johns Hopkins University
Bachelor of Arts in History, 2009
Masters of Arts in Teaching, 2010
University of Chicago
Master of Arts in History, 2011
PhD in History, 2018
Math and Test Prep Tutor
Mi Kang
Mi grew up in southern Texas and graduated with a B.B.A. in Finance from The University of Texas at Austin. Throughout grade school, she tutored and assisted classes in math, reading, and SAT prep. After graduating from undergrad, Mi relocated to Seattle where she worked in the tech industry as a Project Manager and taught yoga. In 2019, Mi started grad school at Northwestern University and graduated with her M.F.A. in Acting in 2022.
Mi has been working as an actor and immerses herself in educational spaces to continue to learn and grow and help others on their journeys as well. In her free time, Mi enjoys practicing yoga, spending time outside, reading, and writing.
Education
The University of Texas at Austin
Bachelor’s of Business Administration Finance 2012
Northwestern University
Masters in Fine Arts Acting 2022
science and math tutor
Sean McGuire
Originally from Kansas, Sean has been teaching since 2008. His teaching career began with High School biology and spread to chemistry, physics, environmental science, and ACT prep. He currently teaches double honors chemistry and AP chemistry at Lincoln Park High School. Sean also works with High Jump Chicago, a program that provides enrichment and support to rising 7th and 8th grade students seeking to navigate the daunting High School application process.
Sean and his fiancé are proud residents of Uptown for the past 4 years and love visiting the lake with their giant Italian Mastiff named Henry. He enjoys cheering for the Kansas City Royals, riding his bike on the lake, and explaining his circuitous path to and passion for education.
Education
University of Kansas
Honor's B.A. in English - Creative Writing, 2005
Dominican University
Master's in Teaching, 2009
Math, Science, and Test Prep Tutor
Maggie Swerdloff
Maggie is a Chicago transplant from the tropical coast of South Florida. She studied at New College in Sarasota, Florida where she received a bachelor's degree with a concentration in Chemistry. Her interests in nanoparticles and biology led her to a lab at Northwestern University, where she spent time creating nano-sized devices for drug delivery and fell in love with the city of Chicago. Maggie moved to Chicago in 2017 to start her PhD in Biomedical Engineering at Northwestern, where she currently works in the Center for Bionic Medicine at the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab. As part of her journey towards a PhD, Maggie spends her time in the lab trying to better understand why everyday distractions can be detrimental to people who walk with prosthetic legs, and hopes to improve their walking ability by using advanced bionic leg technology.
When she's not in lab, you can find Maggie sailing and riding her bike along the shores of Lake Michigan, climbing up (and down) rock walls at the bouldering gym, watering her 1000 houseplants, or in a variety of random artistic pursuits from making ceramics to strumming on her ukulele.
Education
New College of Florida
Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry, 2017
Northwestern University
Ph.D. Candidate for Biomedical Engineering, expected 2022
Math and Test Prep Tutor
Yuchi Chiu
Yuchi is a proud alumnus of Northwestern University (2014) and Dominican University (2016). Upon graduating with his Masters in Special Education, he taught high school special education for six years, both in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. During this time, he also sought to understand the education system as a whole by completing educational policy internships, serving on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Councils, coaching volleyball, and advising male-identifying students through various mentorship programs. In 2018, Yuchi was honored with the SPED Teacher of the Year award by his school as well as the Unsung Hero Award by Educators for Excellence.
Outside of the classroom, Yuchi works as an actor and musician and has combined his passion for education and the arts by serving as an acting instructor and coach. In his free time, he enjoys bartending, exercising, traveling with his friends and family, and trying to teach his dog how to actually return toys while playing fetch.
Education
Northwestern University
Bachelors in Communication Studies, Double Major in Commercial Music, 2014
Dominican University
Masters in Special Education, 2016
Math and Test Prep Tutor
Kayla Schroeder
Originally from the Bay Area in California, Kayla studied at UCLA where she obtained a bachelor’s degree in statistics with a minor in mathematics. Kayla relocated to Chicago in 2020 to pursue a PhD in statistics at Northwestern University. She is currently a second year in the program and will be finalizing her research topic soon. Kayla first started tutoring when she was in high school and continued to tutor her peers throughout her college years and along with tutoring high school AP Statistics students.
In her free time, Kayla enjoys reading, volunteering, hiking, skiing, waterskiing, long distance running and spending time outdoors.
Education
University of California - Los Angeles
Bachelor of Science in Statistics, 2020
Northwestern University
PhD in Statistics, expected 2025
English and writing tutor
Julia Levit
From a very young age when she would look forward to going back to school each summer to help her teachers set up their classrooms, Julia knew she wanted to be a teacher. As such, Julia is currently a 10th grade English/Literature teacher at Pritzker College Prep. She was previously a Learning Specialist for five years. She is now in her twelfth year of teaching and has experience working with grades 6 - 10 in various subjects. Even though she loves the energy and daily excitement of teaching her classes of fantastic students, Julia also enjoys working one-on-one with students in order to help them persevere through difficulties and find personal growth and success.
Julia finally lives with her fiancée in Lakeview after ten years of long distance dating. They have two amazing cats, Ernie and Bert. In her free time, Julia can be found dancing, lifting weights, trying new restaurants, attending costume parties, traveling, going to concerts and sporting events, and reading.
Education
DePaul University
Bachelor's in Secondary Education, 2005
DePaul University
Master's in Special Education, 2012
University of Phoenix
English as a Second Language Endorsement, 2015
Test prep, math, English, and history tutor
Carl Alexander
Carl Alexander is a California native who has had the pleasure of finding new roots in Chicago. He studied at a History Black College or University (HBCU) Morehouse College where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in music performance. Carl relocated to Chicago in 2015 to pursue a masters degree in voice & opera at Northwestern University. Carl first started tutoring when he was in high school and continued to tutor his peers throughout his college years along with tutoring high school AP English and History. When helping students with math, Carl believes anyone can learn how to push through what may seem like unbreakable walls because he found ways to do so himself when he was younger.
Outside of the classroom, Carl works as a photographer and musician and has combined his passion for education and the arts by leading a very successful high school a cappella program. In his free time, he enjoys taking a trip to a movie theater or museum, traveling, and cooking with his friends.
Education
Morehouse College
Bachelor of Arts in Music, 2015
Northwestern University
Master of Music in Voice & Opera, 2017
math, spanish, and test prep tutor
Jose Cervantes
Jose is a Chicago native, born and raised on the west side of Chicago. He attended Emory University in Atlanta, GA and graduated with a Bachelors in Sociology and Spanish/Portuguese. During his time at Emory, Jose developed a strong love for the Portuguese language and immersed himself in a 6 month study abroad program in Lisbon. Post-graduation, Jose decided to move back to Chicago and work with a non-profit on the west side of Chicago helping provide services and tutoring for low-income, black and brown students. He is currently a high school Special Education Classroom Assistant in Humboldt Park working with diverse learners of various academic/social levels.
In his free time, Jose enjoys spending time on his own with his cat, Nina, and playing video games on his Nintendo Switch. He loves to explore the city with friends and take bike rides along the lake shore.
Education
Emory University
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Spanish/Portuguese, 2019
Math and test prep tutor
Colette James
Originally from New York, Colette obtained her bachelor’s in Business from Temple University in Pennsylvania. Colette relocated to Chicago in 2009 and earned a Master’s degree in education at Roosevelt University with a specialty working with differently abled learners. Colette first started tutoring in 2009, when she moved to Chicago. She has worked with a wide range of students, but has a specialty in Algebra and Geometry.
In her free time, Colette enjoys reading, writing, cooking, and spending time with her two daughters.
Education
Temple University- Pennsylvania
Bachelor in Business Administration, January 2004
Roosevelt University
Masters in Education, May 2013
Math and Test Prep Tutor
Mackenzie Gray
Mackenzie grew up just north of Boston, MA. She was a competitive gymnast until high school when she transitioned to track and field. She attended The Governor's Academy which is the oldest boarding school in the country. Her passion for math and science started when she was young and extends far beyond the classroom. She remembers her excitement when she completed her first independent robotics project and continues to find joy in puzzles of all varieties: jigsaw, sudoku, logic, crossword, etc! She completed her Bachelor's of Science in Mechanical Engineering at Northwestern University in 2021. In addition to the required coursework, she chose to take additional courses exploring the fields of robotics, prosthetics, wearable technology, machine learning, and artificial intelligence. She moved to Denver in 2022 to begin a job at a health tech startup and is now planning to return to academia to pursue a PhD in Mechanical Engineering with a focus on the use of sensory feedback and control for prosthetic devices.
Outside of work and academia, Mackenzie enjoys exploring local trails on foot and by bike as well as browsing the multitude of art and farmers' markets.
Education
Northwestern University
Bachelor’s of Science in Mechanical Engineering, 2021
Math and Test Prep Tutor
Joaquin Pratt
Originally from Aguascalientes, Mexico, Joaquin moved to Chicago at the age of 5 and has called it home ever since. Joaquin attended Harvard University where he studied Economics and was a tutor and Teaching Assistant for several college courses, as well as a mentor in an after-school program for inner-city students. After graduation, he decided to continue his work with education by joining Teach for America and earning his Master's degree in Special Education. He spent 3.5 years teaching Geometry and Algebra 2 at UIC College Prep, but he recently made a career shift and is currently a Senior Analyst in eCommerce Supply Chain at Ferrara Candy Company.
Joaquin lives in the Noble Square neighborhood, and on his free time enjoys traveling, working out, playing baseball and cooking. He always welcomes any recommendations for fun activities or restaurants in Chicago!
Education
Harvard University
Bachelor of Science in Economics, 2019
Relay Graduate School of Education
Master’s in Special Education, 2021
English, math, and test prep tutor
Mo Shipley
Mo Shipley (They/Them) is a multidisciplinary artist originally hailing from Chattanooga, TN, but has now made a home in Chicago for over ten years. After graduating college, Mo quickly immersed themselves not only in performance, but arts leadership. Mo has taught courses in Shakespeare, visual art making, and fundraising/development for emerging youth artists. As an arts administrator, Mo assisted a 35 year expert in Bauhaus and German Expressionist art prints, served as a grant writer for individual artists and non-profit performance venues, and was the Front of House Manager for DePaul's Theatre school for over 8 years.
When it comes to tutoring, Mo is as multifaceted as they come. Mo loves to bolster students' confidence by using visuals and analogies to make sure the students are prepared to tackle any challenges they may face, be it with writing, test preparation, math, and more!
In Mo's free time, they love hiking, reading, painting, coffee, and cuddling with their two gigantic cats. When they are not tutoring, Mo works on stage and screen as a professional actor.
Education
Birmingham Southern University
Bachelor of Arts in Theatre, Minor in Business Administration 2012
Math and Test Prep Tutor
Arianna Fearing
Arianna is a dedicated and experienced educator, originally from the breathtaking landscapes of Door County, WI. Growing up, Arianna developed a love for nature, often spending her time at the beaches in the summer and cross-country skiing throughout Peninsula State Park in the winter. From the age of 3, Arianna was certain that she was going to become a teacher when she grew up, and she spent her teenage years as a camp counselor, a student teacher in an elementary classroom, and volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club. Her passion for education never wavered, and she went on to earn a BA in Education from Lawrence University and an M.A. Ed. from St. Catherine University. Additionally, Arianna has an AMI Primary Montessori Diploma from the Montessori Center of Minnesota, emphasizing her dedication to fostering holistic and individualized learning experiences.
Arianna currently resides in Sacramento, CA, and is a lead Primary Montessori teacher. Beyond the classroom, you can find Arianna embracing her creative side, often working on an art or sewing project. She also enjoys taking dance and fitness classes, visiting art museums, spending time with her nephews, and taking day trips to the ocean.
Education
Lawrence University
Bachelor of Arts in Education, 2019
St. Catherine University
Master of Arts in Education, 2022
Test prep, English, and math tutor
Jina Lee
Originally from Los Angeles, Jina attended Northwestern University where she majored in Communications with a minor in Film & Media Studies. Upon graduation, she joined Teach for America and served as a Pre-K teacher for Chicago Public Schools for 3 years while earning her Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education at Erikson Institute. While she is no longer in the classroom, Jina remains a passionate advocate for educational equity and engaging students through multimodal learning to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
Jina is currently back in LA and enjoys reading, running, attending concerts, watching movies with friends, taking dance classes, and going to the beach whenever possible.
Education
Northwestern University
BA in Communication Studies, Minor in Film & Media Studies
Erikson Institute
MS in Early Childhood Education, Bilingual & ESL Endorsements
Math and Test Prep Tutor
Antoinette Fang
Antoinette (they/she) grew up in Seattle, WA and graduated with a B.S. in Mathematics from the University of Chicago. Antoinette’s tutoring and teaching career started in high school, where they tutored early learners in preschool on foundational math and reading skills. In the years following, she gained a diverse range of teaching and tutoring experience, guiding students in subjects ranging from health and wellness to calculus. They are passionate about educational justice and was involved in social psychological research that seeks to develop effective educational interventions that increase the participation and success of women, girls, and other marginalized genders in STEM.
Antoinette is hoping to begin an MD/PhD program in the near future and eventually practice clinically as a pediatrician. Along with clinical practice, they also want to continue conducting interdisciplinary research that promotes equity and justice across the healthcare system.
In her free time, Antoinette enjoys crocheting, watching Chinese TV shows, drinking coffee, and cooking.
Education
The University of Chicago
Bachelor’s of Science in Mathematics, 2023
Science and math tutor
Anna Pietrantonio
Anna is originally from the East Coast, but has lived in the Midwest for the past 4 years. After graduating from Amherst College with a degree in chemistry, Anna moved to Milwaukee to teach high school math and science through Teach for America. In her second year of teaching, Anna earned her Master's in Secondary Education at Marquette University. She currently resides down the street from the Obamas in Hyde Park and teaches biology at Chicago Bulls College Prep.
In her free time, Anna enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring the restaurant scene in her new hometown and taking advantage of the free trial of any exercise class she can get her hands on.
Education
Amherst College
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, 2014
Marquette University
Master of Secondary Education, 2016
Math, Science, and Test Prep Tutor
Brittany Bair
Aside from helping students reach their highest potential, Brittany is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing at the University of Cincinnati. In both patient care and mentorship experiences, she strives to meet each individual’s needs and empower them to be advocates for themselves. As a first-generation college student, Brittany knows that often the biggest challenge for students is learning how to ask for help. Her favorite subjects in school are science and English.
After living in Chicago for several years, she has recently moved back to her hometown Dayton, Ohio with her puppy, Pepper, and her cat, Reginald. Outside of school, she helps manage her family’s golf driving range. Beyond golf, Brittany has always had an interest in sports, especially basketball and football. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, traveling, baking, and playing video games.
Education:
Northwestern University
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, minor in Classics, 2017
University of Cincinnati
Master of Science in Nursing, expected 2023
Math and Test Prep Tutor
Ari Stillman
After graduating from Lehigh University, Ariana moved back to her hometown of Milwaukee to teach elementary school math and reading for two years. She then moved to the non-profit sector in Milwaukee but continued to tutor students throughout the school year. A recent Chicago transplant, Ari currently resides in the West Loop and works for the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education. While not in the classroom anymore, Ariana has a deep love of learning and enjoys working with students to help them find the tools to tackle academic challenges.
In her free time, Ariana enjoys exploring her new city by finding good food, coffee and used book stores.
Education:
Lehigh University
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, 2013
Alverno College
Master of Elementary Education, 2015
English and Test Prep Tutor
Leslie Davis
As of 2022, Leslie is in her third year of high school teaching. She is a junior and senior English teacher at Lafayette High School in Lexington, Kentucky, where she is also the head track and field and assistant soccer coach. Leslie got her master's in English literature at the University of Kentucky thinking that she would become a professor, but after teaching the first-year composition course to college freshmen, she quickly realized that she had a passion for teaching. For that reason she then got her master's in secondary English education and landed the job she holds now at Lafayette. She loves telling people that when her school was founded in 1939, the local school board got permission from the Marquis de Lafayette's living family to use their family crest as the school's own, and they still have it today!
Leslie ran Division III cross country and track and field at WashU and was a member of the 2011 National Championship Cross Country team (go bears!). In the years following college, Leslie also served as a coach for her alma mater. In many ways, she credits coaching with introducing her to the joys of teaching. Today, Leslie whets her competitive appetite by playing with the Lexington Irish, an adult soccer team of expat Irishmen who work in the horse industry in and around Lexington. She also enjoys hanging out with her two cattle dogs, Frank and Mal, and flexing her Jeopardy skills on her couch at home and at various local trivia nights around Lexington.
Education:
Washington University in St. Louis
Bachelor's in English Literature and Anthropology, 2013
University of Kentucky
Master's in English Literature, 2018
Master's in Secondary English Education, 2019
Math, Science, and English Tutor
Adam Timaji
Adam grew up amid the horse farms of Lexington, Kentucky, where he first found a passion for teaching as a high school music instructor. He graduated from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida with a Bachelor's of Science in Aerospace Engineering with a focus in Astronautics and a minor in Human Factors Engineering Psychology. When he wasn't building and launching rocket projects or doing homework on rides at Disney World, he and his classmates would take over a lab and cooperatively teach and tutor each other for tests and projects over the course of each semester.
Adam is currently a Thrust Vector Control Project Engineer at Lockheed Martin Space in Denver, Colorado where he lives with his wife Annalise. They love hiking and exploring the Rocky Mountains, cheering for the Kentucky Wildcats, and swiping through dogs on PetFinder.
Education:
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering, December 2018
Math and Executive Functioning Tutor
Sammie Griseto
Sammie graduated from St. Ambrose University in 2010 and she just finished up her masters from Olivet Nazarene University. Sammie has taught special education for 8 years. She is currently teaching fourth grade, but has experience with students ranging from first through eighth grade. She loves getting to know each and every one of her students. She believes everyone is a learner once they find their groove! Come summertime, Sam is the director of the summer camp that she has worked at for 11 years. She loves the contagious energy and enthusiasm of children!
Lincoln Park is where Sammie calls home. She loves to spend time with her big, extended family, play games, cook, sing and dance to great music, and make jokes!
Education
St. Ambrose University
Bachelors in Special Education, 2010
Olivet Nazarene University
ESL Certification and Masters in Instruction, 2018
Math and Test Prep Tutor
Tenny Ostrem
Tenny was recently inspired to return to her home state of Kentucky. After living in Boston for 5 years and Colorado for 7 years, her experience living out-of-state conveniently came full circle.
Tenny received her undergraduate degree at Boston University. There she hit off her love of multidisciplinary studies, concentrating in Environmental Sciences and Fine Arts. Boston's urban and academic spaces were perfect to explore her broad interest in societal and natural systems.
After college, eager to do hands-on work, opportunities in Colorado's great outdoors led her west. Primarily working as a science instructor in the outdoor education industry, and later a math teaching fellow, she has taught applied science, mathematics, and cultural studies. On a few occasions, she was lucky enough to administer lessons in hydrology on commercial rafting trips!
Math has moved to the front of her affections. She is a math instructor at a center in Lexington, Kentucky, and she tutors college levels on the side. Having grown up looking for those 30-60-90 triangles and geometric shapes that occur naturally in Kentucky's landscapes, it is rewarding to now instruct in the subject geographically close to where her interest in math began.
Education
Boston University
Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Science & Visual Arts, 2014
Math and Test Prep Tutor
John Anders
John has been teaching Mathematics for eight years and currently teaches 12th grade college algebra in the West Town neighborhood. A native of the northwest suburbs, John graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a degree in Mathematics and a minor in Education. Throughout undergrad, John worked as a tutor through Academic Services for Student Athletes. A lifelong learner, he also went on to earn a Master's in Education at Notre Dame and is completing law school part time at Loyola University Chicago.
In his spare time, John enjoys playing pickup basketball and going to the movies with his fiancee.
Education
Notre Dame University
Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, 2011
Masters of Education in Mathematics, 2013
Test Prep and General Tutor
Rebecca Kandefer
Rebecca grew up in the suburbs of Chicago and recently graduated from DePaul University with a degree in Psychology, focusing on human development. She first started tutoring when she was in high school and continued to tutor her peers throughout her college years. In the future, Rebecca hopes to continue her schooling with a Master's degree in education. Rebecca loves to expand her mind and she is ecstatic to share that passion for learning with her students.
Rebecca currently lives in Roscoe Village with her boyfriend and their adorable cat, Misty. In her free time, you will most likely find Rebecca biking around the city, going to last-minute Cubs games, or planning her next travel adventure (all probably with an ice cream cone in hand). She strongly believes that experience is the best way to learn and loves to face new challenges head-on.
Education
Depaul University
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, 2019
Math, science, and test prep Tutor
Jose Luis Contreras
Jose Luis was born and raised in Chicago and attended the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. One of his favorite and most rewarding experiences was studying in France for an entire school year. He is grateful for the opportunity he had to fully immerse himself in a foreign language and way of life. Jose Luis served as a mentor for middle school students at Erie Neighborhood House in the West Town neighborhood of Chicago where he was able to take a hands on approach to individually helping students succeed. Jose Luis also served as a paraprofessional for several years at Pritzker College Prep. He is currently completing his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree at Governors State University. Jose Luis is happy to once again share his love of math and science with young students.
During his breaks from studying, Jose Luis can be found playing soccer, reading, going to the movies, or playing Magic the Gathering.
Education
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Bachelor of Arts in French Studies, 2012
Multiple Subject and Test Prep Tutor
Emily Rosenblum
Emily is a graduate of Bryn Mawr College with a bachelor’s degree in sociology and a Spanish minor. She then went on to the University of Pennsylvania for a master’s degree in urban education where she also earned her middle years math teaching certification. After completing her degree, she moved back to the New York City area where she completed her ELL teaching certification at Montclair State University and then a master’s degree in bilingual/bicultural education along with completing the coursework for a supervisor certification at Rutgers University. She loves to teach and enjoys watching students achieve their dreams!
Outside of teaching, she enjoys travel, reading, writing, and running. She has a great friend who also made her a huge fan of bubble tea!
Education
Bryn Mawr College
Bachelor of Science in Sociology, 2014
University of Pennsylvania
Master of Science in Education, 2016
Science and Math Tutor
Jamie Rosenbaum
Jamie grew up in Deerfield, a suburb of Chicago, and graduated from the University of Wisconsin - Madison in 2016 with her bachelor's degree in Zoology. Following graduation, she worked at Lincoln Park Zoo as an educator teaching high school students in Chicago. In this role, she taught many different science classes, but has a passion for biology and ecology. She is currently pursuing her masters in school social work from Loyola University - Chicago. She enjoys working with students and helping them make connections.
In her free time she loves spending time with her dog, Maren, and exploring the outdoors. She is an avid Green Bay Packer and Wisconsin Badger fan!
Education
University of Wisconsin - Madison
Bachelor’s of Science in Zoology, June 2016
Loyola University - Chicago
Master’s in School Social Work, (expected 2022)
Science, Math, and Test Prep Tutor
Andrew York
Andrew grew up in Bath, England and after careers in Real Estate and Photography in London, returned to the West Country where he gained his Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Science from the University of the West of England (2000) before completing his Post Graduate Certificate in Secondary Education at the University of Bath (2001). Andrew has taught in a variety of schools including an all-boys public school and a Methodist Boarding School in England, and after moving to Chicago in 2005, the British School of Chicago and Rauner College Prep, where here still teaches Chemistry and AP Environmental Science. Outside of the classroom, Andrew coaches both the boys’ and girls’ rugby teams. Recently, Andrew started his Masters in Educational Leadership at North Park University.
In his spare time, Andrew loves to travel the world and the USA, having visited over 30 of the US State Capitols. He enjoys attending Chicago’s great classical music offerings and continues with his love of choral singing.
Education
University of the West of England
Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science, 2000
University of Bath
Post Graduate Certificate in Secondary Education, 2001
North Park University
Masters in Educational Leadership, expected 2021
Math and Test Prep Tutor
Molly Gallahue
Originally from Woodbury, MN, Molly graduated from St. Norbert College in De Pere, WI with a bachelor’s degree in geology and mathematics. Continuing her tour of Midwest states, she relocated to Chicago in 2018 to pursue a PhD in Earth science at Northwestern University. Her research focuses on evaluating and improving earthquake hazard maps, and she also does some work investigating continental rifting processes. Throughout college, Molly worked as a teaching assistant for the geology and mathematics departments. She found her love for tutoring while working with some high school students teaching algebra.
In her free time, Molly enjoys reading, hiking, traveling, and Irish dancing.
Education
St. Norbert College
Bachelor of Science in Geology and Mathematics, 2018
Northwestern University
Masters in Statistics, ongoing
Northwestern University
PhD in Earth and Planetary Sciences, ongoing
English and Test Prep Tutor
Emily Holthaus
Originally from Oklahoma, Emily is a long-time resident of Chicago. A career educator who has worked as a Teacher, Administrator, Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction and just about everything else in between - Emily just loves teaching and learning in all of its forms. She has designed and overseen curriculum across all disciplines but finds the most joy in working directly with students and watching them grow. Currently, Emily works in the nonprofit world supporting financial literacy and career development programs.
In her free time, Emily enjoys spending time with her son and husband, baking, touring restaurants across the city, staying active, and working in real estate.
Education
Knox College
Bachelor's in Anthropology and Sociology, 2010
Dominican University
Master’s in Early Childhood Education, 2012
Math, Science, English and Test Prep Tutor
Leah Wilcox
Originally from Maine, Leah started tutoring science and writing in high school. She also enjoyed playing field hockey, practicing French with her family, and running track. She received her Bachelors in Psychology at Macalester College and is currently working towards her Master of Social Work degree online at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. In college, she tutored chemistry and completed a project on streamlining accommodations services. Leah enjoys working with students with mental health or learning difficulties as well as students who simply want to excel.
In her free time, Leah enjoys singing, playing Dungeons and Dragons, and writing.
Education
Macalester College
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, 2018
UIUC
Master of Social Work, expected 2024
Math, Science, and Test Prep Tutor
Minhaj Jabeer
Minhaj grew up in a small town on the east coast of Sri Lanka before moving to Columbus, Ohio. Go Bucks! Minhaj first started tutoring around the Columbus community in high school. He went on to tutor his peers in college, along with high school students in preparing for the ACT. During college at The Ohio State University, Minhaj also mentored students in a homeless shelter.
After attaining a bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Minhaj currently attends medical school as a second year at Loyola Stritch School of Medicine. Minhaj has continued his passion of tutoring and mentoring in medical school and is excited to share his passion with others.
During his free time, Minhaj likes to lift weights, play basketball, and go down YouTube rabbit holes.
Education
The Ohio State University
Bachelor of Science in Microbiology, 2019
Loyola Stritch School of Medicine
Doctorate of Medicine (MD), ongoing
Math and Test Prep Tutor
Alex Riggs
As of 2020, Alex is starting his 8th year teaching. He has spent the last five (and soon to be six!) years teaching Math at Pritzker College Prep. He started his teaching career in Detroit by joining Teach for America and teaching middle school math, science, history, and Spanish. He started to focus on math in his second year in the classroom and during that year he received his Master’s from Oakland University with a focus in secondary mathematics.
He currently teaches at Pritzker College Prep in the Hermosa community, serving a strong Hispanic student population, the majority of which are to-be first-generation college students. The school boasts a 95%+ college acceptance rate with some recent graduates getting accepted into Stanford, Harvard, Northwestern, University of Chicago, and many more elite institutions.
From 2015-2016, Alex (and a team of Pritzker teachers) attended the Hollyhock Teaching Fellowship through Stanford University’s Center to Support Excellence in Teaching (CSET). This competitive fellowship received applications from teachers nationwide and selects roughly 100 teacher-teams per year. Through this program, he has improved his ability to pose purposeful and guiding questions, bolstered his knowledge of best math practices, and discovered better techniques to elicit student ideas and ways of modeling mathematics.
Alex lives in Ravenswood (down the street from Lakeview High School). A proud Kentuckian, you can oftentimes find him at the Pony Inn on W. Belmont cheering on his Wildcats (during non-quarantined times). He played Division III soccer at DePauw and is usually an active participant in local soccer leagues. He also enjoys walking on the lakefront, exercising, playing and watching any sports, all types of music from country to Hip-Hop to R&B, and the beautiful summer months Chicago sparingly bestows upon its citizens.
Education
DePauw University
Bachelor's in Behavioral Economics, 2013
Oakland University
Master's in the Art of Teaching (MAT) with a focus in secondary mathematics, 2015
STEM, Test Prep, and Spanish Tutor
Niki Bray
Growing up in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Niki always had an innate love of travel and adventure. While attending the University of Oklahoma, he studied Aviation and Environmental Science. One of his favorite experiences was as an exchange student in Viña del Mar, Chile, where he improved his Spanish language skills. Niki later became a university Spanish tutor for two years. He also taught several years of aviation/STEM summer camp for elementary through high school students before becoming a flight instructor for the University of Oklahoma. For several semesters, Niki helped over a two dozen students earn their flight ratings.
He feels fortunate and grateful to work in his dream career as a pilot for a major airline. For over five years, Chicago has been his home.
While travel still remains his favorite way to spend his days off, Niki is always down to play tennis, soccer, or simply explore the city on two wheels.
Education
University of Oklahoma
Bachelor of Science in Aviation, 2013
Science and Test Prep Tutor
Luca Podrecca
Luca recently finished his Masters degree at Rutgers University in New Jersey where he also worked with the Rutgers Science Explorer team, teaching hands on science experiments at middle schools across the state. Luca recently moved to Chicago to continue his research in geoscience at Northwestern University, studying how climate and sea levels have fluctuated through Earth’s history; he believes that the only hope for making accurate predictions about the future is by understanding the mechanisms which shaped the past. Originally from Key Largo, Florida, Luca loves water activities, from fishing to diving, and has begun taking sailing lessons on Lake Michigan to keep close to the water at his new, inland home.
In his free time Luca enjoys reading, camping, hiking, and riding dirt bikes. He even spent one summer doing all three as he and a friend rode the Trans-America Trail from the Atlantic coast to Denver, CO.
Education
University of Florida
BSc. in Geology, 2013
Rutgers University
MSc. Geoscience, 2018
Northwestern University
Ph.D. Geoscience, (Current)
Math and Test Prep Tutor
Matt Jewell
Matt grew up in the Chicago suburbs and attended the University of Notre Dame for his undergraduate degree and Master's of Education. He is currently studying for a Master of Science degree in Actuarial Science at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He spent seven years teaching in Chicago and Los Angeles, and loves working with students, which is why he has come to Leewood Learning.
When he isn't in class, Matt is usually bingeing shows with his wife, studying for Actuarial Exams, trying new recipes (and restaurants), or playing video games.
Education
University of Notre Dame
Bachelor of Arts in History, Minor in Business-Economics, 2014
Master of Education, 2016
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Master of Science in Actuarial Science, expected 2023
MATH AND TEST PREP TUTOR
Max Gottliebson
Max grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio and relocated to Chicago to begin his teaching career. He graduated from Miami University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Physics, minoring in Spanish. He discovered a love for teaching while working at his synagogue’s Sunday school during undergrad, incorporating scientific discussions within a religious context. Max is currently pursuing a Masters of Science in Education at Northwestern University with plans to teach high school physics upon completion of the program. Max finds joy in showing his students not just how things work, but why.
Outside of school, Max is an avid cyclist and loves to explore Chicago’s culture through food and museums.
Education
Miami University in Ohio
Bachelor’s of Science in Physics, 2020
Northwestern University
Masters of Science in Education, expected 2022
Math and Test Prep Tutor
Kaedi Young
Kaedi grew up in a suburb of Chicago, Northbrook, and graduated from Illinois State University in 2016 with her bachelor's degree in special education and in 2021 with her masters in special education. From a young age, she knew she wanted to follow in her mom's footsteps and be a teacher. She has been teaching at Pritzker College Prep since 2016 in a variety of different roles as a special education teacher. She teaches all aged high school students in all academic areas including history, english, math, science, and executive functioning. She enjoys watching students grow their potential and achieve their dreams!
In her free time, Kaedi coaches cheerleading, running Operational Snowball, traveling, being around family and friends, working out, and watching Netflix.
Education
Illinois State University
Bachelor of Arts in Special Education, 2012
Master’s in Special Education, 2016
Math, English and Spanish Tutor
Carolina Cruz
Carolina grew up on the Southside of Chicago. She graduated from Northwestern University with a Major in Spanish. Throughout her undergraduate years, she worked with students from all over the Chicago-area. Most of the work she did was mentoring students in K-8th grade through different non-profits she volunteered with. Carolina currently work at Intrinsic Schools mentoring a group of 9th grade girls. In the future, she hopes to help students get into college as a post-secondary advisor.
Outside of work, Carolina enjoys going on walks with her family, trying new foods, experiencing new cultures, and reading.
Education
Northwestern University
Bachelor of Science in Spanish, 2018