About the Founder
I’m Katie, a Writing and Executive Function Coach who helps students build clarity, independence, and self-assurance in their communication skills. I believe every child has a unique voice worth developing, and my work centers on helping students express their ideas with structure, confidence, and poise.
After more than a decade teaching in private schools, working with students in Grades 3–12, and teaching AP English Language, I discovered something essential: students thrive when learning is truly tailored to their strengths and thinking styles. One-on-one mentorship allows me to understand each student deeply, how they learn, what motivates them, and where they shine, and I let these insights shape my instruction. This tailored learning experience goes far beyond what classrooms or AI tools can offer.
I hold a Master’s in Education and am completing a Ph.D. in Psychology, which allows me to bring a grounded, research-informed approach to learning, motivation, and executive functioning. My creative life in theatre and performance shapes how I teach communication, presence, and storytelling, helping students bring their ideas to life and connect meaningfully with their audience.
Across all these experiences, one belief remains constant: When students feel supported and understood, they grow in remarkable ways.
My coaching blends structure with compassion. I provide students with essential tools including planning, outlining, reading strategies, essay structure, and revision techniques while nurturing the internal skills that matter most: resilience, self-advocacy, and trust in their own voice. I love witnessing the moment a student realizes they can write, trust their ideas, and take pride in their work. That spark inspires me every day.
I also take joy in serving as one of the supportive adults in a student’s learning village, offering guidance and another trusted voice in their growth.
I work with students in Grades 3 to 12 across the DMV and beyond. No matter their age, the heart of my work is the same: helping students become thoughtful, confident communicators ready for the future.
My goal is not just to help students complete assignments; it is to help them grow into capable, independent learners who feel proud of their work. If you seek a polished, deeply personalized coaching experience, I would be delighted to partner with your family.
See you in the studio,
Katie
Professional Background
Maryland certified teacher
10+ years teaching writing and English
Experience across Grades 3–12, including AP English Language
Former private school teacher
Master’s in Education
Ph.D. candidate in Psychology
Writing & Executive Function Coach
Studio Values
Everything I do is guided by:
Clarity — teaching students to think and communicate with precision
Confidence — building self-trust and academic courage
Compassion — meeting each student exactly where they are
Structure — providing tools that make learning easier
Voice — helping students find and trust their unique perspective
Together, we create a space where students feel supported, capable, and proud of their growth.
Who is Elevate for?
Elevate works best for families who want their students to grow as writers and thinkers over time, not just complete assignments. Many families come here when their student has strong ideas but needs support organizing them, building confidence, or learning how to approach writing more strategically.
This often includes students who are ready for greater challenge and depth in their writing, as well as learners whose thinking styles are more divergent or nonlinear and benefit from instruction that works with (rather than against) the way their minds naturally operate.
Families who thrive with Elevate tend to value personalized instruction, thoughtful feedback, and a long-term approach to skill development rather than quick fixes.
If you’re unsure whether Elevate is the right fit, I’m always happy to talk through your student’s needs and help you decide what would be most helpful.
Connect With Me
Let’s talk about what would best support your student.