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Custom Education

Custom Education

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All subjects, grade levels, & topics

Meet Our Team

Licensed Educators

Highly-Qualified

Long-Term

Dedicated

INVESTED


Admin TEAM

Lauren Allyse Blankenship

He​ad of School

Jiji Baylis

Testing Admini​strator

Heidi Gillmore

Counseling Admin

Lauren Allyse Blankenship

Chief Executive Officer

Director, Founder, Owner

Education and Licensure

  • Bachelor of Science: Elementary Education K-6, George Mason University
  • Concentration: Integrative Studies, George Mason University
  • Master of Arts: Curriculum and Instruction, George Mason University

Specialization and Expertise

  • K-8 General Education
  • 6-12 Mathematics
  • Educational Leadership
  • Educational Coaching
  • Curriculum Development
  • Standards Based Learning
  • Project Based Learning

Allyse Blankenship is the creator of Allume Custom Education and a naturally passionate, ​experienced, and dedicated educator with a Master’s degree in Curriculum & Instruction from ​George Mason University. With a background in teaching at every grade level, K-12, Allyse has ​gained extensive knowledge of student development and learning progression. She recognizes the ​importance of individualized curriculum and has created custom curriculum for her students, ​both in elementary school and in mathematics specializations for middle school.


Kathleen Murdock

Reading and Executive Functioning Specialist

Administrator

Education and Licensure

  • Early Childhood Education, GA State University
  • Elementary Education, GA State University
  • Reading, Language, and Literacy, GA State University
  • Education and School Leadership, Columbus State ​University

Specialization and Expertise

  • Reading Literacy K-12
  • Phonics / Reading Comprehension
  • English Language Learner

Kathleen Murdock is a highly effective elementary educator located in Atlanta, GA, ​specializing in reading, writing, and comprehension for grades k-12. She has a Bachelor's ​degree in elementary education and a Master's degree in Reading, Language, and Literacy. ​Kathleen brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her student-centered teaching ​approach.Kathleen believes that every student can learn with the right support and learning ​experiences that meet their needs. She is dedicated to creating relationships with her students ​and families in order to nurture each student's learning style and love for learning. In her ​spare time, she loves to read, shop, and volunteer in her local community as a member of ​Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Kathleen also serves on the board of directors at ​the Nicholas House, where she supports their mission and impact around providing wrap-​around assistance to help families stay together as they go through homelessness. Kathleen is ​currently a doctoral candidate at National University.


Nicole Hesse Brooks

Math Specialist

Administrator

Education and Licensure

  • Bachelor of Arts in Education, University of Mississippi
  • State of Mississippi Teaching License
  • Teaching Endorsements:
    • Math K-12
    • Science K-12
    • English K-12

Specialization and Expertise

  • Middle School Math
  • Instructional Coach 6-8 Math
  • Curriculum Development
  • State Assessment Writing
  • Teacher of the Year, 2016

Nicole Brooks is our Math Specialist and Curriculum Instructor. As an administrator, Nicole is ​excited to support students in a new way! Nicole brings unparalleled enthusiasm, deep ​knowledge, and a genuine commitment to inspiring and empowering learners. Nicole hopes to ​ignite curiosity, foster a love for learning, and create an engaging environment for all students.


Karina Ignatova

Primary Specialist

Elementary 1-3

Education and Licensure

  • Bachelors in Childhood Education
    • CUNY Hunter College
  • Masters in Literacy Education (birth-6)
    • CUNY Hunter College
  • Professional Teacher Certification - New York
    • Elementary Education grades 1-6

Specialization and Expertise

  • Elementary, 1-6
  • Elementary Literacy Education, PK-6

Karina's focus lies in crafting engaging lessons and facilitating authentic experiences, while ​empowering students with the freedom of choice in their learning. Karina holds a Master’s ​Degree in Literacy Education, equipping her with the tools to cater to diverse learning styles.


Karina Ignatova is a passionate educator with a heart for nurturing young minds. With an ​impressive seven-year tenure in teaching elementary education in the vibrant setting of NYC, ​she has navigated both in-person and virtual classrooms. Nothing brings her more joy than ​witnessing the growth and development of her students as they progress academically and ​personally. She is motivated to make a positive impact on their lives and instill in them a ​passion for knowledge that will serve them well throughout their journey.

Hilary Sesin

Curriculum Specialist

Elementary 3-5

Education and Licensure

  • Master of Teaching degree in Elementary Education, K-6
    • University of Virginia, 2014

Specialization and Expertise

  • Reading/Writing Strategies
  • 3-5 Math
  • Curriculum Writing
  • Project-Based Learning

Hilary has developed Social Studies curriculum and believes that children connect deeply to ​learning experiences grounded in big, essential questions. Her classroom experience makes ​her particularly suited to reading and math instruction as she is skilled at visually breaking ​complex concepts down into digestible parts.


Hilary Sesin brings nearly a decade of experience in education to Inspire. Hilary holds a ​Master of Teaching degree in Elementary Education and has deep knowledge of the upper ​elementary curriculum and stages of development. Hilary also has extensive leadership and ​instructional coaching experience. She loves connecting with students and finding the hook ​that will make them engage in their own learning and soar.

Kimberly Mack

Elementary Specialist, K-6; Reading Specialist, K-12

Gifted and Talented; ESOL

Education and Licensure

  • Masters Degree/MAT from USF
    • Elementary Ed K-6
    • Gifted Endorsement
    • ESOL Endorsement
    • Reading Endorsement K-12

Specialization and Expertise

  • Gifted and Talented
  • Literacy Coach K-5

Kimberly is a highly skilled and motivated educator with 20+ years of teaching experience. Her ​commitment to her role as teacher as well as her practices and strategies are instrumental in ​the success of each of her students. Kimberly believes in building meaningful relationships ​with her students which allows them to feel safe and confident in their learning.

Kimberly is passionate about supporting students with different learning styles. She ​accomplishes this through development of clear pathways and strategies in order for them to ​become confident learners. Kimberly applies techniques to promote engagement and ​motivates her students to be lifelong learners.

Tiffany Brundage

Primary Literacy (K-6) and Secondary Math (7-9) Specialist

Elementary K-6; Special Education K-6

Education and Licensure

  • Teaching Licensure
    • Childhood Education 1-6
    • Special Education 1-6
    • Mathematics 7-9
    • Literacy B-6

Specialization and Expertise

  • Reading Specialist- Orton Gillingham Certified, K-8
  • Fountas and Pinnell Literacy Intervention
  • Middle School Math
  • Literacy K-6
  • Special Education

Tiffany is a dedicated educator with over 10 years of experience. Committed to excellence, she ​actively seeks professional development opportunities to stay current with education best ​practices. With a profound understanding of challenges faced by struggling learners, Tiffany ​specializes in supporting students, particularly in reading and literacy. Her patient and ​inclusive approach ensures all students feel encouraged and empowered.

Tiffany's dedication to fostering inclusivity extends to her work with English Language ​Learners, helping them build confidence and language skills for academic success. She takes ​pride in igniting a love for learning, preparing students for success in their academic and ​personal growth.

Gema Chimal

Education and Licensure

Elementary (K-5) Specialist

Bilingual ESOL Specialist

  • Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction
    • Concordia University, Portland
  • Clear Multiple Subject Teaching Credential
    • Bilingual Education Credentialing Alternative ​(BECA) Program of San Diego Unified Schools
  • Bachelor of Arts in History
    • University of California, San Diego

Specialization and Expertise

  • 24 years of experience as a certificated teacher
  • 3 years of experience as a virtual/online teacher
  • Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction
  • Recipient of the District Innovation Award
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish)

Gema Chimal, a seasoned educator with 24 years of experience and a Master's degree in ​Curriculum and Instruction, holds a California Multiple Subjects BCLAD EC-12 Teaching ​Credential and a Texas Core Subjects with STR Grades EC-6 ESL Educator Certificate. With a ​diverse teaching background, including 3+ years of virtual instruction, Gema is adept at ​catering to students of varying socio-economic backgrounds, cultures, languages, and learning ​abilities.

As an elementary educator, she excels in virtual lesson planning, student assessment, and ​active participation in meetings and conferences. Gema is dedicated to holistic student ​development, receiving District Innovation Awards for establishing a Social Emotional ​Learning club. She also actively engages parents, serving on the PTA board and leading ​workshops on SEL. Beyond general education, Gema brings expertise in teaching social ​emotional learning, cultural history, and performing arts.


Philip Dugas

Education and Licensure

English 6-12 Specialist; General Education ​K-6

K-12 Physical Education, ESOL, and SPED

  • North Greenville University - BS Sport Management
  • Florida State University - MS Physical Education
  • American College of Education - M.eD - Educational Leadership
  • United State Sports Academy - Ed.D. Sport Administration/HR
  • State of FL
    • English 6-12
    • Elementary Education K-6
    • ESOL K-12
    • Reading K-12
    • ESE K-12
    • PE K-12
    • Educational Leadership

Specialization and Expertise

  • English 6-12
  • Teaching English Language Learners
  • Special Education
  • Elementary Education
  • Middle Grades Education
  • Business Education

Dr. Philip Dugas has been in education for 17 years from elementary school to graduate level ​degree programs as a teacher, coach, administrator, and curriculum developer. He believes all ​students can be successful. As an educator he loves finding out how each individual student ​learns, building a relationship, and working with a students strengths and learning style to ​help them be successful.

Currently he is a professor at Trinity Baptist College in Jacksonville, FL. He is married to his ​wife of 15 years, Terri. They have two children, Peyton (13) and Parker (10), 4 dogs, and two ​cats.

Tracey Baroody

Education and Licensure

Advanced Academic Specialist

Gifted and Talented Elementary

  • Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
    • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College
  • Master’s Endorsement in Gifted and Talented
    • George Mason University
  • Certified Children’s Yoga Instructor

Specialization and Expertise

  • Gifted and Talented
  • Elementary Education

Tracey has a teaching career of 20 years and holds an endorsement in Gifted and Talented ​education from George Mason University. She is dedicated to ensuring that all learners have ​access to evidence-based strategies that train how to think. Her expertise is in relationship ​building so that students gain confidence and develop a growth mindset regarding their own ​individual learning styles.


Tracey is skilled at developing and implementing lesson plans in all subjects that encourage ​critical and creative thinking – exploring the complexities of topics that do not necessarily ​have a right/wrong answer. Yes, some students have the ability to learn and apply information ​quickly, but students who need support in a specific subject can also build sound thinking ​strategies and thus confidence. She believes that all students can learn (and benefit from ​learning) the kinds of thinking that are offered to formally identified ‘gifted and talented’ ​students.


Dakota Peterson

Education and Licensure

Elementary Education Specialist

K-6

  • Liberty University
    • Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education (K-6)
    • Minor in Special Education
  • John Tyler Community College
    • Associate of Science with a major in General Studies with a specialization in Teacher Education (K-6)
    • Associate of Arts with a major in Liberal Arts specialization in music

Specialization and Expertise

  • Special Education
  • Elementary Education

I am Dakota Peterson, a licensed K-6 teacher with an endorsement in Special Education. I am ​currently teaching kindergarten at one of my local public schools, but helping students who ​are struggling, or those who just need some extra support, is one of my passions. Being able to ​help students have that lightbulb moment is extremely fulfilling for both the student and ​myself! I look forward to helping you with anything you may need.

Outside of school I am a mom of a sweet little girl, a wife to my loving husband, and a high ​frequency volunteer at my church. Being able to serve those around me is one of my defining ​characteristics.

I look forward to working with you.

Kayshla VanBrocklin

Algebra Specialist

Precalculus Specialist

Education and Licensure

  • Florida International University, Florida - Bachelor of Science in Mathematical Sciences
  • Florida International University, Florida - Bachelor of Arts in Natural and Applied Sciences
  • Miami Dade College, Florida - Associate of Arts

Specialization and Expertise

  • Mathematics 9-12
  • Pre-Calculus & Calculus
  • Algebra Specialist
  • Norwegian language studies

I have a Bachelor of Science degree in mathematical sciences with experience facilitating an ​active learning Calculus I course. I also have experience researching student achievement and ​outcomes in that course, as well as teaching in high schools.

Kayshla studied mathematical sciences as well as natural and applied sciences at Florida ​International University. They enjoy learning and reviewing math and science topics, ​traveling, singing, cooking, and spending time with friends and loved ones. They are looking ​forward to assisting with your math and science journeys!


Christopher Mack

Education and Licensure

Calculus Specialist

AP Specialist

  • AP Calculus Certification
    • Advanced Placement College Board
  • M.S. Curriculum and Instruction
    • Western Governors University, WA
  • B.A. Secondary Education in Mathematics
    • Northwest University, Kirkland WA
  • EDTPA Teaching Certification
    • Pearson Education Inc.

Specialization and Expertise

  • Math 6-12
  • AP Calculus
  • Curriculum Development
  • Student Mentorship

I believe every student is worthy of my best efforts. I ​want my class to show students math is approachable, ​accessible, and accomplishable.


Jennifer Gailey

Education and Licensure

Secondary

Mathematics Specialist

  • Bachelor of Science in Mathematics
    • Campbell University
  • Collegiate Professional Licensure - Virginia
    • Secondary Mathematics

Specialization and Expertise

  • Middle School and High School Mathematics
  • Algebra I
  • Algebra, Functions, and Data Analysis (AFDA)
  • Algebra III with Trigonometry
  • Geometry
  • Economics and Personal Finance (EPF)

Jennifer is a dedicated and passionate educator with an unwavering commitment to helping students ​achieve their fullest potential. With years of experience in the classroom, she has cultivated a genuine ​love for teaching and guiding young minds towards success. Jennifer’s infectious enthusiasm creates an ​engaging learning environment where students feel motivated and supported in reaching their goals. ​Whether it’s through innovative teaching methods or personalized instruction, she goes above and ​beyond to ensure each student’s unique needs are met.


Jennifer is an accomplished mathematics teacher, holding a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics. ​She focuses on breaking complex mathematical concepts into smaller more manageable components. ​Whether her students are mastering algebraic equations, geometric theorems, or trigonometric ​functions, her approach revolves around ensuring that students understand each step with clarity and ​confidence. Jennifer’s experience and proficiency with virtual teaching enable her to create a dynamic ​and interactive learning environment where students can thrive and excel in their mathematical ​studies.

Mandy Steies

Primary and Secondary ELA Specialist

English Language Arts 1-8

Education and Licensure

  • Bachelor of Arts, Education 1-9
    • University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2000

Specialization and Expertise

  • Secondary English Language Arts 5-8
  • Elementary English Language Arts, 1-4

Mandy is a highly experienced educator who enjoys making learning fun and engaging for her students ​while helping them find real world applications for the concepts they are learning. She has taught a ​variety of subjects and grades over the past 20+ years. She currently specializes in middle school ​language arts. Mandy is committed to the individualized instruction that pairs with the strong ​relationships she builds with her students and their families.


Mandy sees herself as a lifeline learner and truly enjoys learning as much as teaching. She actively ​pursues professional development opportunities to stay on top of the latest research in education. She ​looks to foster the natural curiosity of students while helping them learn and grow in order to reach ​their goals in life. She is passionate about connecting with her students and using their interests to ​guide their learning.




Stephen Jones

Education and Licensure

English Specialist

Debate Specialist

  • Bachelor’s degree - English and Arts, Humanities
    • Florida Atlantic University, 2003
  • Professional Teaching License
    • English Literacy 6-12

Specialization and Expertise

  • Debate
  • English
  • Creative Writing
  • Published Author
  • Cambridge


Stephen has taught English courses in grades 6-12 for over 13 years, including teaching ​abroad in South Korea for a year. Some of the courses that Stephen has taught over the ​years include but are not limited to: English 1-4, Debate, Debate Honors 1-4, ​Journalism 1&2, AICE Cambridge Thinking Skills, and AICE Cambridge Global ​Perspectives. Stephen has also worked as an SAT prep instructor for different schools ​and learning centers.

Stephen Jones is a published author and highly skilled writing instructor. He has ​taught a wide variety of English courses, writing courses, and Debate. He has a ​contagious and passionate love of learning that he shares with his students.

Paige Rockwell

Education and Licensure

Secondary ESOL Specialist

PreK-12 Language Specialist

(Spanish and English)

  • Bachelor's of Science: World Language Education, PK-12
    • The Pennsylvania State University
  • Bachelor's of Science: Spanish
    • The Pennsylvania State University
  • Master's of Education: Curriculum & Instruction, specialization in Teaching Culturally & Linguistically Diverse Learners
    • George Mason University
  • Professional Teaching Certification - Virginia
    • Spanish - PK-12th grade
    • ESOL - PK-12th grade

Specialization and Expertise

  • Spanish (Bilingual)
  • ESOL
  • ELA 6-10

Paige is a dedicated educator specializing in ESOL and Spanish. She holds a Master's of ​Education degree in Curriculum and Instruction and has experience developing English ​Language Development curriculum aligning with MYP and WIDA standards. Paige's ​commitment to equity and inclusivity drives her to create a learning environment in which ​every student can thrive, regardless of their language proficiency or cultural identity. By ​incorporating various teaching strategies, fostering open dialogue, and embracing diversity in ​the classroom, Paige provides all students with equitable and enriching learning opportunities ​while nurturing their language skills and cultural appreciation.


Jiji Baylis

Education Specialist, 9-12

English, Writing, and College Essays

Education and Licensure

  • Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction
    • Texas A&M University
  • Bachelor of Arts
    • Texas A&M University
    • Major: English, Minor: Spanish
  • Principal EC-12, Language Arts (8-12), GT (8-12), ESL (8-12), Pre-Ap

Specialization and Expertise

  • ELA 9-12
  • College Admissions
  • Test Prep
  • Educational Leadership
  • Creative Writing

Jiji Baylis, native Houstonian and Texas A&M alumna, holds a B.A. in English and Spanish as ​well as an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction. She taught high school English for a decade ​prior to crossing over into the educational technology space. She enjoys spending time with her ​family, brewing strong coffee, and all things art.


Holly Bacha

Education and Licensure

K-12 Education Specialist

Special Education Specialist

  • Master of Arts in Education Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
  • Bachelor of Arts in History University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
  • Bachelor of Arts in Music University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
  • MASTER’S PORTFOLIO THEME
    • The Teacher as the Lifelong Learner
    • Tagline: “How to teach everything to everyone before you know anything.”
    • Supervisors: Program Director Dr. Lynda Sullivan (NBCT), and Advisor Catherine Anderson, M.S. (NBCT), Adjunct Faculty

Specialization and Expertise

Director of Pupil Services/Special Education; Principal; Special Education, Elementary Education K-8, History, Social Studies, General Music, Vocal Music, Instrumental Music

Holly Samson Bacha (MA-Ed) is a Special Education teacher and consultant with newfangled ​ideas and a strong passion for serving all students and families to meet their goals for success. ​With over a decade of experience in education, Ms. Bacha has an inflated sense of purpose and a ​disdain for complacency. This unconventional view has served to push the bar for students in all ​demographics and core areas of study. Ms. Bacha envisions a world where all students grasp the ​future of their dreams.


Rochelle Dierenfeldt

Middle School ELA

General Education 4-8

Education and Licensure

  • M.Ed. Reading – Graduated December 2022 Summa Cum Laude; Montana State University
  • Bachelor of Science, Human Development and Family Studies – Graduated May 2016 Summa
  • Cum Laude; Warner Pacific College,

Specialization and Expertise

  • ELA 4 - 8
  • Test Preparation
  • Gen Ed 4-8

Rochelle Dierenfeldt is a dedicated educator with a passion for fostering literacy and ​empowering individuals through well rounded education. With a solid foundation in Human ​Development and Family Studies at the undergraduate level and a Masters of Education in ​Reading, Rochelle brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her work.


Rochelle's proficiency in education has been honed through almost a decade of dedicated ​reading tutoring and five years in a traditional classroom. Her tailored approach to instruction ​has proven instrumental in unlocking the potential of learners of all ages, providing them with ​the skills and confidence needed for success. Whether in the classroom or one-on-one tutoring ​sessions, Rochelle is known for her ability to create engaging and supportive learning ​environments in all subject areas. Her collaborative and student-centered approach fosters a ​love for learning while addressing the unique needs of each individual.



Laura Gould

Education and Licensure

  • Master of Arts, Teaching | Tufts University
  • Bachelor of Arts, English | Northeastern University
  • Special Education (Mild/Moderate Disabilities)
  • English Language Arts (grades 5-12)
  • Mathematics (grades 5-12)

English and Math

5-12

Special Education Specialist

Specialization and Expertise

  • executive functioning
  • foundational academic skills
  • remediation skills
  • test prep (SAT/ACT/SSAT/HSPT/private school entrance exams)
  • ELA
  • Math
  • History

Hi, I'm Laura! I've been in education for over a decade, with ten years of experience as a classroom ​teacher and seven years of tutoring experience with students of all ages. I'm an experienced test prep ​tutor (SAT, ACT, ISEE, HSPT), and also tutor students in math, history, ELA, and executive ​functioning/study skills. I've worked extensively with students with learning differences (ADHD, ​autism, specific learning disabilities, dyslexia, etc). I hold teaching certifications in CA and MA.

I love breaking down challenging concepts into concrete steps with students, as well as leveraging ​student strengths and interests to build success. I strive to figure out what level of understanding ​students are coming in with, and meeting them where they're at to create a gradual but meaningful ​learning plan targeted to each student's individual needs. Whether it's test prep, academic tutoring, ​college essay planning, or executive functioning coaching, my goal is to create a relationship-based ​non-intimidating learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, taking ​risks, and making mistakes to learn in the way that works best for them. When I'm not tutoring, I ​enjoy singing, gardening, and working on web accessibility projects.


Amanda Scott

Middle and High School Science Specialist, K12

Physical Education & Health Specialist, K12

Art Education, K12

Education and Licensure

  • B.S. Biology
  • License with endorsements: Biology (grade 6-12) and Health & Physical Education (grades k-12)

Specialization and Expertise

Health & PE grade k-12 and Sciences k-7th (of special interest is Life Science, Ecology, and Zoology)

My background includes a diverse mix of volunteer work with children, nonprofit management, and ​teaching. I have worked with wildlife, in a microbiology lab, and in schools. I am a licensed teacher ​with endorsements in Biology as well as Health and Physical Education.

I love to help students learn through projects, hands-on modeling, and games. Every child is different ​and will receive my full support to create real-world connections between educational content and ​their interests. I am extremely patient and believe in empowering students to be confident and ​comfortable.

When I'm not teaching, I can be found reading a book or running trails. I would love to share my ​passion of science and nature with your child, model great health, or physical education goals.



Joey Farah

Marketing and Business Education Specialist

Special Education Specialist, 6-12

Education and Licensure

  • Bachelors of Science – Georgia Southern University
    • Public Relations
  • Masters of Business Administration – Columbia Southern University, MBA
  • Specialist – Liberty University
    • Educational Leadership
  • Professional Teaching Certification – Georgia
    • Marketing (6-12)
    • Business Education (6-12)
    • Elementary Education (P-5)
    • Special Ed General Curriculum (P-12)
  • Educational Leadership – Tier II

Specialization and Expertise

In his teaching approach, Joey prioritizes project based and hands on learning, incorporating technology, collaboration, differentiating and chunking of assignments, and reflection as a roadmap towards one academic journey. He also has experience with virtual learning, helping students to think outside the box when it comes to solving problems, and helping to foster an inquiry-based mindset.

Gigi Kuhn

Trilingual French Specialist

K-12

Education and Licensure

  • Master of Arts
  • Major in French, Minor in Education
  • Bachelor of Marketing & Integrated Communications (business school)

Specialization and Expertise

  • French K-12
  • Trilingual
  • Global Education

Gigi is the ultimate global citizen, teacher by training, and lover of the French language and ​culture. She was born in Saigon, raised in Paris, studied in Montreal, and worked in London. Gigi ​is trilingual, with French as her primary language, and holds three passports from USA, France ​and Vietnam.

Gigi carved out a distinguished career in Chicago as a French teacher for children, teenagers and ​adults, from beginner to advanced level.

In 2015, the Chicago chapter of the American Association of Teachers of French (AATF) awarded ​Gigi its "Prix d'Excellence" for outstanding contributions to the teaching of French language and ​culture in the state of Illinois.

Gigi is thrilled to join the team at Allume Custom Education!



Valentina Dimitrova

French and Spanish Specialist

K-12

Education and Licensure

  • MA IN FRENCH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE, SOFIA UNIVERSITY ST. ​KLIMENT OHRIDSKI
  • BA IN FRENCH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE, SOFIA UNIVERSITY ST. ​KLIMENT OHRIDSKI
  • TEACHING CERTIFICATION COURSES - NORTHEASTERN ILLINOIS ​UNIVERSITY
  • Professional Educator License - Special K-12 with an endorsement in ​French
  • Endorsement in Spanish
  • Professional associations : American Association of Teachers of French- ​AATF

Specialization and Expertise

  • Teaching French and Spanish languages, English grammar, ELL
  • Exceptional expertise in current language instructional practices and curricula, including the CI approach and following the ACTFL proficiency benchmarks.
  • Excellent at applying novel educational technologies in the classroom.
  • Superb human relations, decision-making, interpersonal and problem-solving abilities.
  • Outstanding written and oral communication skills
  • Ability to engage students and create meaningful connections with them.
  • Sound courtesy and professionalism skills

Melissa Oleinic

K-12 & Evaluation Specialist

K-12

Education and Licensure

  • Master of Arts: Child and Adolescent Literacy, Loyola Marymount ​University
  • California State Teaching Credential, Multiple Subject, The Master's ​University
  • Teaching Endorsements:
    • English K-12
    • History K-12
  • Bachelor of Arts: Liberal Studies, Teacher Education, The Master's ​University

Specialization and Expertise

  • Assessment and Evaluation
  • Reading Literacy K-12
  • Curriculum Development
  • Individualized Homeschool Support

Melissa Oleinic delights in individualizing educational support based on the ​needs of learners. Her extensive background in assessment and evaluation lays ​a foundation for establishing the current progress of students in order to build ​them up and equip them with the tools necessary to continue learning and ​growing. She is eager to encourage success, as well as find creative solutions ​when challenges arise. Her expertise lends her to supporting students through ​assessment and evaluation, reading comprehension and literacy.

Keegan Warne

K-12 Humanities Specialist

K-12

Education and Licensure

  • Bachelors of Arts: History George Mason University
  • Virginia Department of Education - Teacher Licensure ​Program

Specialization and Expertise

  • Early Childhood Education
  • Social Studies 6-12
  • English Language Arts 6-12
  • Curriculum Development

Keegan began his teaching career as a social studies teacher covering subjects ​like World History, Civics, and Religious Studies. In these courses he always ​integrated different teaching methodologies (e.g - project based learning, ​interactive games, discussion based questions) to enhance the learning ​experience of his students. Recently, Keegan has been working in early ​childhood education as a Pre-K and Kindergarten teacher.


Keegan's passion for teaching comes from his want to help others grow ​academically and socially. He believes that through education students learn to ​be kind and considerate members of their community.


Rudy Escobar

Wellness Coach

Licensed Professional Counselor

Education and Licensure

  • Master’s Degree in Education with an emphasis in Guidance and Counseling, Old Dominion University
  • Professional License
    • Pupil Personnel Services PreK-12
    • Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Virginia

Specialization and Expertise

  • Individual and Small Group Counseling: Proficient in delivering personalized counseling sessions tailored to address personal, social, and academic concerns, fostering emotional growth and resilience among students.
  • Classroom Guidance: Skillfully engage students through interactive classroom guidance sessions, equipping them with essential life skills, study habits, and decision- making abilities.
  • Career and Postsecondary Exploration: Spearheaded dynamic career awareness activities, inspiring students to explore diverse career paths and postsecondary opportunities, preparing them for a successful future.
  • Collaborative Approach: Proven ability to collaborate with a wide spectrum of stakeholders, including students, parents, educators, therapists, social workers, and administrators, to holistically address students’ needs and promote their overall well- being.

Jessica Spinks

Education and Licensure

Wellness Coach

Licensed School Counselor

  • Bachelor of Business Administration - Lamar University
    • Finance
  • Master of Education –Lamar University
    • School Counseling
  • Professional Licensure
    • Elementary Education EC-4th
    • ESL Supplemental
  • Certified School Counselor
    • EC-12

Specialization and Expertise

  • Mentorship
  • At-risk students
  • Social and Emotional Learning


Meet Jessica! With her 15 years of experience in education and almost 10 of those years as a ​school counselor, she will surely make a positive impact on the Allume Custom Education ​students by providing valuable support in social and emotional learning through short-​term individual counseling meetings.


Jessica's dedication to mentoring and tutoring diverse and at-risk students through work ​and after school programs shows her commitment to making a positive impact in ​education. Additionally, her involvement in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, and ​engagement in educational opportunities and mentorship further demonstrate her ​dedication to lifelong learning and community involvement.