All subjects, grade levels, & topics
Meet Our Team
Licensed Educators
Highly-Qualified
Long-Term
Dedicated
INVESTED
Head of School
Testing Administrator
Heidi Gillmore
Counseling Admin
Reading Specialist
Melissa Oleinic
Secondary Math Specialist
Secondary Gen. Ed.
Creative Writing/ Debate
Melissa Oleinic
SAT, ACT, College Apps
Testing Preparation
Career & Technical
Laura Mann
Speech Specialist
K-6 Special Education
K-12 Special Education
K-12 Special Education
Lauren Allyse Blankenship
Chief Executive Officer
Director, Founder, Owner
Education and Licensure
Specialization and Expertise
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
Specialization and Expertise
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
Specialization and Expertise
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
Specialization and Expertise
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
Specialization and Expertise
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
Specialization and Expertise
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
Specialization and Expertise
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
Specialization and Expertise
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
Specialization and Expertise
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
Specialization and Expertise
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
Specialization and Expertise
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
Specialization and Expertise
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
Specialization and Expertise
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
Specialization and Expertise
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
Specialization and Expertise
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
Specialization and Expertise
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)
Specialization and Expertise
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
Specialization and Expertise
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
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
Specialization and Expertise
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
English and Math
5-12
Special Education Specialist
Specialization and Expertise
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
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
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
Specialization and Expertise
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
Specialization and Expertise
Melissa Oleinic
K-12 & Evaluation Specialist
K-12
Education and Licensure
Specialization and Expertise
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
Specialization and Expertise
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
Specialization and Expertise
Jessica Spinks
Education and Licensure
Wellness Coach
Licensed School Counselor
Specialization and Expertise
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.