Hey there!
I’m Alyssa—a licensed educator, academic tutor, and children’s author passionate about helping students grow with confidence and curiosity. My teaching journey began in 2016 tutoring students with Down Syndrome, and soon after, I directed a summer camp for children with disabilities and chronic illnesses. Those early experiences showed me how transformative learning can be when students feel supported and valued.
I hold dual degrees in Cross-Categorical Special Education and Elementary Education from Carthage College, WI, and for the past five years, I’ve taught as both a learning specialist and a 5th-grade classroom teacher. In every role, I focus on helping students strengthen their academic skills, build confidence, and develop strategies that make learning feel meaningful and rewarding.
Outside the classroom, I’m an adventurer—backpacking in Alaska, canoeing through Canada, and exploring new challenges whenever I can. That same spirit inspires my writing. As a children’s book and young adult author, I create adventure stories inspired by my real-life experiences and picture books that nurture empathy, connection, and courage.
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Academic Tutor - Tutoring High School students with Down Syndrome.
Behavioral Technician - Applied Behavior Analysis therapy with children with autism.
Evening Program Director - Designed therapeutic recreational activities for children and adults with disabilities and chronic illnesses.
Learning Specialist - Taught classes for students with emotional behavioral challenges and learning disabilities.
Classroom Teacher - Currently teaching in an inclusion style classroom supporting general education, students with IEPs/504 plans and enrichment curriculum.
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K-8th grade general education tutoring and support.
K-12 special education support.
Executive functioning and social-emotional learning.
k-8 Illinois standardized testing tutoring.
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A few of my most notable journeys...
Pioneer - Camp Manitowish - Two weeks canoeing through Quetico Canada.
Expedition - Camp Manitowish - Two weeks backpacking through Artic National Wildlife Refuge.
Intermediate Expedition - Camp Manitowish - Thirty days paddling along the Geikie river and foster water shed in Saskatchewan Canada.
Osprey Wilds Environmental Learning Center - Wildlife conservation and learning adventure over one month in the North Woods.
Mt. Huron Peak - Colorado 14'er.
Mt. Grays Peak - Colorado 14'er.
Up next...
John Muir Trail - 12 day backpacking tour.
Mt. Whitney - Highest peak in the lower 48.
