Our Team
At Ascension Educational, we are committed to providing safe, high-quality instruction. Our instructors are highly qualified and receive comprehensive Ascension Educator Training.
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Tutoring 🍎
Alycia Steelman - Founder & CEO
Areas of Expertise: STEAM, Exec. Skills Coaching.
*Special Education
Service Location(s): Virtual & in-person in the NYC area.
Alycia Steelman is the founder and driving force behind Ascension Educational Services.
She has a Master’s in Curriculum Development from Boston University and a Bachelor's in Political Science and Government/Psychology from New England College. Alycia has dedicated her career to creating personalized learning experiences that empower students to excel.
With over 10 years of experience in the field, Alycia began her teaching journey at Wediko Children's Services, where she worked as a TA and a Residential Counselor. She followed up this role with her position as a Teach for America Corps Member at Durfee High School. Alycia's passion for education then led her to Boston Public Schools, where she did advocacy work with Educators for Excellence and earned a Teacher of The Year nomination and two publications.
Abroad, Alycia continued tutoring students virtually across forty countries, fostering a love for learning in each. Today, as the founder and CEO of Ascension Educational Services, Alycia serves as a consultant and educator, focusing on providing STEAM education and executive functioning skills coaching.
Alycia is available for virtual and in-person tutoring in the NYC area.
Alexis R.
Areas of Expertise: Science (K-6), Math (K-6), English (ELA) (Pre-K-8), History (K-6).
*Special Education
Service Location(s): In-Person in North Fork, NY.
Alexis R. is a dedicated educator and lifelong learner with a passion for nurturing young minds.
Alexis has a Master's Degree in Elementary and Special Education from Rutgers University with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a minor in Education as a Social Science.
With over 10 years of experience in education and childcare, Alexis has positively impacted the lives of many students. In both her educational roles as a kindergarten teacher and private tutor, Alexis creates vibrant and engaging learning experiences, cultivating curiosity and growth both inside and outside the classroom. Committed to building a strong educational foundation for all young learners, Alexis is certified in childhood education (Grades 1-6) and special education (Grades 1-6).
Alexis R. offers in-person tutoring in North Fork.
Laila
Areas of Expertise: Science, STEAM, Math, English (ELA), Test Prep.
*Special Education, Ivy League.
Service Location(s): Virtual & in-person in the NYC area.
Laila graduated from Columbia University with a Bachelor's in Biology in 2013. In 2016, she completed the Special Master's Program in Physiology at Georgetown University.
Throughout college and after graduation, Laila tutored Columbia undergraduates in chemistry, calculus, literature, and writing.
She has also taught SAT and AP exam prep at Brooklyn College, Beacon High School, and Nest+M High School since 2019.
Laila also worked as an afterschool activity specialist and as a literacy and math tutor at MS 88 Middle School, where she supported neurodiverse students in meeting state standards. Her experience also includes childcare, during which she frequently assisted children with their homework.
Laila is available for virtual and in-person tutoring in Brooklyn, NY, and the surrounding NYC area.
Oliver
Areas of Expertise: Science, STEAM, Math, Test Prep.
Service Location(s): In-person in the Providence area.
Oliver graduated from Johns Hopkins University with a Bachelor of Science in Physics and Mathematics, where he was a teaching assistant in Physics 1 and Physics 2.
While earning his Master's in Education: Curriculum and Teaching from Boston University, Oliver began teaching physics and engineering at a public high school in Fall River, MA.
In his 8 years in the classroom, Oliver was named Rookie Teacher of the Year in his district and thus has received AP teaching awards from community organizations.
Oliver has worked for CollegeBoard developing, editing, and reading the AP Physics exams and deeply understands the Advanced Placement frameworks.
Oliver loves working with students to build strong foundational understandings and learn strategies for approaching complex problems. He has over a decade of test prep experience and loves fostering creative problem-solving in his lessons.
Oliver is available for in-person tutoring in the Boston area.
Elizabeth
Areas of Expertise: Science, Math, Test Prep.
*Special Education
Service Location(s): Virtual.
Elizabeth is a Doctor of Physical Therapy with a biology, neuroscience, and sport rehabilitation background.
While completing her undergraduate degree from St. Mary's College of Maryland, she was awarded Female Student Athlete of the Year, The Department of Biology Award, and Valedictorian status for her graduating class in 2020.
Elizabeth has several years of experience working with children as a swim lesson instructor, swim team coach, and volunteer for individuals with developmental disabilities.
In her free time, she loves to read and stay active by training for triathlons.
Elizabeth is available for virtual tutoring.
Hannah holds both a Bachelor's and Master's of Science in Geology and has specialized training and significant experience in education.
Drawing from her own teaching experiences, Hannah personally understands that every student has unique learning needs. Therefore, Hannah's teachings consist of a wide range of tutoring and supplemental resources to find the best fit for each student.
As a teacher, Hannah is eager to share her passion and expertise in STEAM, particularly in subjects such as Earth Science/Geology, Chemistry, and Math. She is also dedicated to helping students understand and truly enjoy these subjects.
In her free time, Hannah enjoys soaking up everything NYC has to offer.
Hannah is available for virtual and in-person tutoring in Brooklyn, NY, and the surrounding NYC area.
Alexis H. has a Bachelor's degree in Physics from MIT and over 10 years of experience tutoring students of various ages.
She currently teaches physics and math at a K-12 private school for gifted students in Massachusetts, where she brings her love for math and science to life by making complex concepts engaging and accessible through real-world connections.
Outside of teaching, Alexis enjoys hiking, traveling, and learning new languages. Her time living in Belgium was a transformative experience that deepened her appreciation for diverse cultures and educational systems and inspired her inclusive approach to teaching.
Alexis specializes in tutoring physics and advanced mathematics and is excited to help students excel in their studies.
Alexis H. is available for virtual tutoring.
Andrea
Areas of Expertise: Science, Math.
Service Location(s): In-person in NYC and Northern NJ.
Andrea has a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Lafayette College and is currently in graduate school for acupuncture in New York, with the overarching goal of practicing integrative medicine. She has served her community as an EMT and crisis counselor, and in her free time, she enjoys Salsa dancing! She has also worked in education, public health, and clinical research.
Andrea is passionate about education and has been tutoring for over a decade. Her focus on strong foundational skills and a deep understanding of scientific concepts has enabled her students to flourish academically; however, she is most proud of the frequent times her students express they enjoy the subject that was once daunting to them.
Andrea primarily works with high school and college-level students. She specializes in Math up to Calculus 2, General Chemistry, Algebra-based Physics, Introductory Biochemistry, and Biology.
Andrea is available for in-person tutoring in the NYC and Northern NJ areas.
Julia holds a Bachelor’s in Economics and Honors in Philosophy from Northwestern University and has extensive experience tutoring various middle school subjects.
Driven by a commitment to positive change, Julia combines her professional work and philanthropic efforts to make a meaningful impact and inspire others.
Passionate about art, travel, and music, Julia infuses creativity into her tutoring, drawing on her global experiences and diverse cultural insights gained from her travels around the globe. Music is also central to her life, offering her inspiration and relaxation.
Julia is available for virtual tutoring.
Valerie
Areas of Expertise: Math, STEAM, English (ELA), Test Prep.
Service Location(s): Virtual & in-person in Jersey City & the NYC area.
Valerie holds a Master of Arts in Economics from The City University of New York, where she graduated Cum Laude, and a Bachelor of Arts from The University of Texas at Austin.
She is an economist and Professor of Economics at Columbia University, with additional experience as an adjunct professor at New York University, where she taught courses such as Principles of Macroeconomics.
Valerie sparks curiosity in her students. She believes in delivering a personalized student experience that supports diverse learning styles by using engaging activities to earn a learner’s attention. Valerie feels the world would be a better place if everyone knew a little more about how the economy works.
That passion spills over into demystifying complex concepts for her students in ways that make learning fun and inviting—whether it is test prep, math, writing, or economics.
Valerie is available for virtual and in-person tutoring in Jersey City and the NYC area.
Irina
Areas of Expertise: Math, STEAM, Admissions.
*Ivy League
Service Location(s): In-person in Wellesley, MA.
Irina holds a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Technology, Innovation, and Education from the Harvard Graduate School of Education, where she was recognized as an Urban Scholar Fellow.
She also earned a Master of Science in Applied Mathematics and a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Mathematical Sciences with minors in Spanish and Accounting from DePaul University. Additionally, Irina completed a Secondary Education Certificate Program in Mathematics Teacher Education at National Louis University, earning an ISBE Type 09 Certificate.
Irina has over 15 years of expertise in math and computer science education for grades 6-12 in both Chicago and Boston. Including 6 years of experience designing educational technologies and teaching courses in coding, programming, animation, and game design for students ages 4 to 18, Irina is a seasoned educator with a deep commitment to innovative teaching practices.
Irina is passionate about recognizing and nurturing each student's unique abilities, boosting confidence through personalized instruction, and fostering trusting academic relationships. She excels in helping struggling learners and challenging students who need extra enrichment. In addition to her expertise in math tutoring, Irina also coaches students in executive functioning and interviewing skills, ensuring they are well-prepared for academic success.
Irina is available for in-person tutoring in Wellesley, MA, and limited virtual tutoring.
Anna
Areas of Expertise: Math, Exec. Skills Coaching, English (ELA), Admissions Essays, Test Prep.
Service Location(s): Virtual.
Anna holds a Master of Science in Accounting from Babson College and a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Accounting from Mercer University.
With extensive tutoring experience, including tutoring college student-athletes in their business courses, Anna has also trained IT audit professionals at PwC and coached softball for young students ages 8-16.
Passionate about opening 'doors of opportunity' for all learners, Anna finds joy in helping students prepare for the SAT and building their writing, mathematics, and executive functioning skills.
In her spare time, Anna works as a certified kayaking tour guide and enjoys hiking, skiing, traveling, and team sports.
Anna is available for virtual tutoring.
Grace
Areas of Expertise: English (ELA), Admissions Essays, Test Prep.
*Special Education, Ivy League.
Service Location(s): Virtual & in-person in the NYC area.
Grace is pursuing a Master of Arts in Sociology and Education from Columbia University Teachers College.
She earned her Teaching certificate from Ottawa University and has a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology and German from Willamette University in her home state of Oregon.
Grace has over 10 years of education experience and an extensive background in after-school programming and literacy education. As a certified ELA teacher, Grace has taught middle school English in public schools and at a high-performing NYC charter school. In 2014, she was named the recipient of a Fulbright Grant, which allowed her to teach English in Germany.
Grace has experience teaching students with learning disabilities and neurodivergence and specializes in ELA (English Language Arts) support, college admissions essays, and test prep.
Grace is available for virtual and in-person tutoring in the NYC area.
Estelle
Areas of Expertise: English (ELA), Test Prep.
*Special Education
Service Location(s): In-Person, in Setauket, Stony Brook, Smithtown, Lake Grove, Oyster Bay, East Norwich, Syosset, Jericho, Locust Valley, and Westbury.
Estelle has a Master of Arts and Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from St. Joseph’s College.
Since 2019, Estelle has worked as a Special Education Teacher at Harmony Heights High School in New York. This small, 12-1-1 class setting is an alternate placement for students with special needs. In addition to teaching grades 10, 11, and 12, Estelle also teaches world culture and theater.
Additionally, Estelle has extensive experience in creating and grading the New York State Regents exams and providing SAT and ACT prep.
Her background in these subjects and her belief that every student has a right to learn in their preferred style allows her to present material to students and parents in a unique and engaging way.
Her accomplishments include speaking at Oxford University, UK, using storytelling to promote emotional growth and connection, and publishing several creative works.
Estelle offers in-person tutoring across the North Shore and central areas of Long Island, NY, including surrounding towns from Setauket to Westbury.
Dustin is an enthusiastic online course instructor with a Master's degree in Divinity and a passion for history, literature, and the church. In addition to his academic pursuits, he is a dedicated husband to his wife, Jamie, and a proud father to his two children.
His passion lies in providing students with dynamic and engaging learning experiences, making complex topics easy to understand. He strives to instill a contagious passion for learning in all his students, fostering an environment where curiosity and growth flourish.
Dustin is available for virtual tutoring.
Austin
Areas of Expertise: English (ELA), Test Prep, EFL/ESL (English as a Second Language), Spanish.
Service Location(s): Virtual & in-person in NYC, Queens, and Westchester.
Austin received a Master of Arts in Spanish with an education focus from Middlebury College, including courses in Spanish-language literature, linguistics, and culture. His undergraduate degree is in International Studies from Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee.
Austin has worked in education since 2018, instructing and tutoring English as a Foreign Language (EFL) in Brazil, France, and Spain, and later in Spanish on Long Island in New York State.
In addition to his professional experience with EFL/ESL (English as a Second Language) and Spanish, he maintains academic interests in History, English Language and Literature, and both French and Portuguese Language and Literature. Austin is proficient in working with students from 6th to adult learners.
Outside of academics, Austin has traveled extensively and enjoys visiting New York’s world-class museums and cultural events. He also collects tropical plants and plays video games in his free time.
Austin is available for virtual and in-person tutoring in NYC, Queens, and Westchester.
Admissions Coaching 🏫
Kara Tatelbaum - Admissions Coach
Areas of Expertise: Admissions.
Service Location(s): Virtual.
As a NYC mom of two kids and teacher for over twenty years, Kara is acutely aware of and experienced with private, public, and independent schools. After a few years as a go-to mom in the neighborhood for admissions advice, she extended her practice as a Certified Wellness + Resilience Coach to include Admissions Coaching for both parents and students.
The New Yorker has described Kara as “having brown curls, bright eyes, kiddish exuberance and looking like the heroine of a children’s book, Really Rosie meets Olivia the Pig.” Kara enjoyed an extensive dance performance and teaching career in NYC and abroad. She earned her BFA in Dance (University Honors Scholar) from NYU and her MFA in Choreography (Teaching Assistantship) from SUNY Purchase.
Kara is the author of the best-selling, brutally honest dance memoir Putting My Heels Down. She frequently visits colleges and universities to talk with students about how not to pigeonhole and tunnel-vision themselves by drawing on her deeply personal story.
As a sought-after teacher and coach, Kara uses her full-out dancer energy to empower others to expand and achieve their dreams. With firsthand experience as both a public and independent school mom, Kara understands the unique needs of both parents and students and is here to support you throughout the entire admissions process.
Kara is available for virtual admissions coaching.
Exam Proctoring 📝
Brooke is an aspiring educator with five years of tutoring and childcare experience. She is currently attending the University of Kansas, where she is obtaining her Bachelor's in Health Sciences.
While attending school, Brooke received several awards, including the Academic Letter Award Recipient, Football Managing Letter Recipient, Principal's Honor Roll Recipient, and four times Dean's List Recipient.
In her free time, Brooke enjoys volunteering, cooking, crafting, and providing childcare.
Brooke proctors the SAT, ISEE, and SSAT exams.
Elliott is studying management and business as a Dean's List Student at Skidmore College.
Elliott enjoys working with children and currently works at Manhattan Plaza as a camp counselor and at Global Sports as a youth basketball coach.
Previously, Elliott has worked with professional soccer clubs worldwide to build data visualizations for club data and analyze club and player databases.
In his free time, Elliott enjoys reading, cooking, biking, and playing soccer and basketball.
Elliott proctors the SAT, ISEE, and SSAT exams.
Sydney is a passionate lifelong learner with a Bachelor's degree in English and a minor in history from Kenyon College.
Over the past two years, she has co-led dynamic and engaging creative writing seminars for high school students through Putney Student Travel and the Kenyon Review's Young Writers program. She also supported fellow students by editing their resumes and cover letters as a Career Services Associate.
In her free time, Sydney enjoys reading, writing, and spending time outdoors.
Sydney proctors the SAT, ISEE, and SSAT exams.