“If a child hasn’t learned, a teacher hasn’t taught.”
Since our inception in 2012, we are proud to have built a team of professional educators. After an initial academic and learning skills assessment, we offer placement with a specific tutor best suited to a student’s needs.
✔ We help our students meet and exceed curriculum expectations.
✔ We teach reading, writing, math, French, special education, science, biology, and learning skills.
Each tutor has his or her different area of specialty, but they all share deep knowledge of children and love of education. Most importantly, all members of our team stand by our motto – we are responsible for our students’ progress.
Administrative Team
Julia Paykin
Co-Founder / Co-Owner, Academic Director
Julia Paykin
What’s your role at RWT?
I meet with students and conduct academic assessments. Together with parents and frequently with students, we devise a learning plan that comes into implementation with one of our tutors.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I have been a teacher for over two decades now. I have taught traditional learners, struggling and enriched students in many educational settings, both in groups and 1-on-1. I received my Master’s in Education in Language and Literacy from the University of Toronto and got my training in Direct Instruction methods from Angus Lloyd Associates Inc. I am often a part of training and workshops at the National Institute of Direct Instruction in Eugene, Oregon. I am passionate and committed to finding the best programs and solutions for our students.
What are your educational beliefs?
I believe the best way to unleash a student’s potential is to get to know their individual learning style. We are all unique and possess different strengths and needs. We learn best if those differences are taken into consideration. I am also a strong believer that we our children’s education is amongst our first responsibilities.
What are your hobbies and interests?
Both professionally and personally, I am fascinated by children. I love spending time with them both at home and at the centre. The ways they are capable to make us grow never stop to amaze me.
Tell us one fun fact about you.
I speak five languages. My idea of a relaxing afternoon would be perfecting my French with one of the teachers on our team!
Yulia Gorinsky
Co-Founder / Co-Owner, Director of Finances, Head of Operations
Yulia Gorinsky
What’s your role at RWT?
I am head of operations and finances. I make sure day-to-day things run smoothly. I help parents work out a payment plan that works for their families at this specific moment of their lives.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I am a financial professional with more than 15 years experience in financial analysis, accounting and team management. I happen to have a lot of understanding in how to approach families with children who have special needs since I have years of personal experience teaching a child with learning difficulties.
What are your educational beliefs?
I believe the sky is the limit, and it is up to us to reach for it. Every child has a talent and the role of an educational specialist is to help them discover and make it flourish.
What are your hobbies and interests?
Some things that make me feel grounded are yoga, music, and books.
Tell us one fun fact about you.
I love singing!
Sofia Lazarieva
Administrative Support
Sofia Lazarieva
What’s your role at RWT?
I am a receptionist, the first person you see when you enter the centre. My role is to welcome children, help with transitions to class and ensure everyone feels at home at Read Write Think.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I am in the process of transitioning from secondary to post-secondary education, and have an interest in developmental psychology. I love interacting with young children, be they students at our centre, my younger sister or my cousins. I am also an artist and happy to engage with children at the centre while they wait to be picked up.
What are your educational beliefs?
I believe learning happens at your own pace, when you’re calm, engaged, interested and feel unjudged. I also believe that there is a personal learning curve for everyone and there is no one size fits all.
What are your hobbies and interests?
One of my hobbies is painting and drawing. I love being creative with my new art projects as I am always open to new ideas and use of different kinds of materials. It is always fun to learn new techniques, as well as getting inspired by other artists.
Tell us one fun fact about you.
Fun fact about me is that I love to travel and try new foods!
Patricia Molendowski
Academic Assistant, Literacy and Special Education Specialist
Patricia Molendowski
What’s your role at RWT?
I teach reading to our younger students. I am amazed to see how the knowledge of sounds and blending can transform them into readers. Also, I help struggling students meet their academic goals in math, reading, writing, science and social skills.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I have received my Bachelor of Honours in Child and Youth Care at Ryerson University. In my experience as a Child and Youth Worker with the Toronto Catholic School Board, I have worked alongside children with multiple exceptionalities and behavioural problems. I have found ways to adapt programs, games and activities for students having difficulty completing the task on their own. I am experienced working with students both in small groups and one on one. I help my students develop their writing, reading, math and social skills. I bring experience building and implementing programs in a recreational setting for youth with special needs with the City of Toronto. I have developed such a passion for working with children and youth and am glad to apply my experience and education to the students I tutor.
What are your educational beliefs?
I believe that each and every child can be successful in their learning. I have developed many positive relationships with my students and have been able to build great rapport with them. With consistency and encouragement, I have been able to see my students grow in their learning.
What are your hobbies and interests?
I love being outdoors and spending time hiking, exploring different parks, and just being around nature. I like to be active and get involved in different activities. For this reason, I love spending a lot of time in recreational settings whether it is running camps for children and youth or leading various games, activities, and fitness classes in community centres.
Tell us one fun fact about you.
I am constantly teaching myself new things and love to learn new languages. Throughout the years I have taken several classes in American Sign Language and currently I am learning Spanish.
Special Education / Early Childhood / Literacy Educators
Mariia Zibareva
Literacy, Math and Special Education Specialist
Mariia Zibareva
What’s your role at RWT?
I am a special education specialist assisting kids in literacy and numeracy. I help students reach success by recognizing their strengths and unique needs. I watch their confidence bloom as they work towards their goals.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I received my B.A. in English Language and Literature and taught extensively in China and Ukraine, where I helped children master their English skills. Later on, I pursued my education and obtained a Behavioural Sciences Diploma at Seneca College. I have worked with individuals with autism and brain injury, where I contributed my teaching skills by implementing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Errorless Learning and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. I am passionate about teaching and helping students of all abilities reach their full potential!
What are your educational beliefs?
I believe that every child is special and gifted in their own way, and has their strengths and unique talents. My job is to motivate, challenge, and to facilitate my students’ academic and personal growth by finding the right approach to everyone.
What are your hobbies and interests?
I love reading, cross-stitching and baking. I also enjoy travelling, doing yoga and Kangoo Jumps.
Tell us one fun fact about you.
I have a lovely Bengal cat who acts like a dog 😊
Danielle Cautillo
Literacy, Math and Science Specialist
Danielle Cautillo
What’s your role at RWT?
My role at RWT is to support and teach literacy, math and science to a wide range of students. My goal is to improve my students’ academic capabilities and lead them to success.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I have completed my studies at York University where I received my B.Sc. Honor’s in Psychology. I am an extremely passionate professional and constantly apply my knowledge in professional settings. When I am not working with students at RWT, I do Applied Behavior Analysis therapy (ABA). I help students on the autism spectrum balance everyday life. My specialty is to help struggling students achieve independence, academic success and find the joy of learning. All this brings me great satisfaction and joy.
What are your educational beliefs?
I believe that every student has the capability to achieve their academic goals with hard work and patience. Children need a safe and fun environment to work and grow in. Giving them the space to ask questions and express their concerns will eventually result in academic growth.
What are your hobbies and interests?
In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I also like spending time outdoors and especially enjoy hiking. I love learning and consistently do research on areas that interest me.
Tell us one fun fact about you.
I love to bake!
Stephanie Kotsopoulos
Literacy, Math and Special Education Specialist
Stephanie Kotsopoulos
What’s your role at RWT?
I teach reading, writing, French, special education, and prepare students for SAT tests.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I received my Honours Degree in History at the University of Guelph with an area of concentration in Nutrition. I have also earned a certificate in French from Durham College. During my undergraduate studies, I developed a passion for creative writing, research and essay writing. I utilized my strengths in research and writing and became a tutor at the University of Guelph where I helped students develop their writing skills and assisted editing academic research papers. At RWT, I help students develop their academic skills to achieve necessary results in language art areas. I work with high school students on SAT language and essay part preparation, helping them obtain the necessary score for colleges and universities admittance.
My previous experience of working at a clinic that provides a wide range of therapy services to children of all ages gave me with deep understanding of how to interact and engage with children who require special education. My understanding of various types of learning styles allows me to connect with students at a different level.
What are your educational beliefs?
I believe that all children are unique, and the “one size fits all” teaching approach is not equally effective for all students. It is important to learn the strengths of each student and apply appropriate methods of teaching to ensure all students can reach their academic goals.
What are your hobbies and interests?
In my spare time I enjoy reading and I participate in two book clubs. I also enjoy hockey, hiking and cooking.
Tell us one fun fact about you.
I love aquatic life! I have a pet lobster, two clownfish, three shrimps and a starfish in a saltwater fish tank.
Julia Di Pardo
Literacy, Math and Special Education Specialist
Julia Di Pardo
What’s your role at RWT?
My role at RWT is to assist students in reading, comprehension, spelling, oral communication, writing and math.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I am a York University graduate with a B.A in Linguistics and Psychology. My background in linguistics has given me the foundations in phonetics, syntax and semantics; which are essential for reading and writing, while psychology has allowed me to understand human behaviour and cognitive processing, while also making me a compassionate and empathetic human being. During my time at York University, I led a mental health awareness organization and I currently continue to volunteer with them by promoting mental health awareness through education and events.
My goal is to create an inclusive environment where students can feel encouraged and empowered, not only academically, but in all aspects of life.
What are your educational beliefs?
I believe every child is unique and has the ability to reach their fullest potential. Through positive reinforcement, consistency and optimism, anything is possible! Having taken creative psychology as one of my courses in undergrad, I learned there are multiple ways people can learn. Not all students thrive in a typical classroom setting.
At RWT, I like to get to know my students so I can create an environment suitable for their learning needs. There are a variety of methods that can be used to grasp a concept, so I try to find the ones that bring out the most success! I also believe education goes beyond the classroom. Learning and education doesn’t stop when we are done with school. I encourage kids to read, play and explore because life is about continuous learning and growing.
What are your hobbies and interests?
I love reading, baking, crocheting and zumba!!
Tell us one fun fact about you.
I’ve been up Mount Vesuvius in Naples, Italy which is an active volcano!
Otty Tavara-Gordillo
Literacy, Math and Special Education Specialist
Otty Tavara-Gordillo
What’s your role at RWT?
I am a learning specialist in the areas of literacy, numeracy and special education. I help students meet their academic goals and reach their full potential.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I hold a Bachelor in Psychology from York University and have experience working with children of all ages, from infants to grade 12. I have been worked with “at risk” children, and I am experienced working with children with autism, ADHD and behavioural difficulties. I implement my academic knowledge and experience in how I engage and teach my students.
What are your educational beliefs?
I believe that the early years of a child’s life are the most important because it is during this time that a child develops the building blocks for a successful life. I am always amazed at how quickly and efficiently a child learns and retains new information and associates it during development. It does not matter how young a child is, they are capable of learning at any age. I once taught an infant to say “more” through sign language!
What are your hobbies and interests?
I enjoy arts and crafts the most. I like to paint and create art work during my free time and have a wide collection of wooden crafts I have completed. I also enjoy researching and learning new subjects especially on different cultures and history. I enjoy DIY projects and spending my time gardening in my backyard.
Tell us one fun fact about you.
I am fluent in both English and Spanish, and once lived in Machu Picchu for a year before coming to Canada.
Shelly Pisarenko
Literacy, Math and Special Education Specialist
Shelly Pisarenko
What’s your role at RWT?
My role is to inspire young minds so they can succeed academically, socially and in life. I do this through creating a fun learning environment that utilizes a variety of cognitive skills during class sessions and allows students to succeed. Currently, I teach learning and literacy to students with a range of needs.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I received my Honours Bachelor of Psychology at York University and then continued my academic journey with a Master’s in Education at the University of Toronto specializing in Developmental Psychology and Education. I have worked with typical and exceptional children as early as two years old and adults that have a range of learning requirements. By getting to know their strengths and weaknesses, I can better cater learning sessions to their personal needs. I have developed a variety of curriculums to fit the demands of diverse clientele. With the skills I have obtained over the last decade, I am able to conduct unique lessons at Read Write Think.
What are your educational beliefs?
I believe that anyone can learn and one of the basic skills, underlying academia and life is “learning to learn”. This skill is developed through passive and active instruction. By focusing on this a little more, greater outcomes can be achieved. Motivation, inspiration and interest are the building blocks to any successful learning journey.
What are your hobbies and interests?
Outside of work and school, I played volleyball and soccer at every opportunity I had. I love cooking and my favourite meal to make is chicken soup.
Tell us one fun fact about you.
I have been collecting coins since I was seven years old and my collection is labelled by continent. Currently, I have over 200 coins and one of my prized ones is from the 1800’s in modern day Philippines – while it was under Spanish rule.
Loїc-Aime Mulatris
French and English Literacy Specialist
Loїc-Aime Mulatris
What’s your role at RWT?
I teach and support literacy, English and French at RWT. I do my best to develop and implement lesson plans that facilitate learning and help students achieve their educational goals.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Alberta and a Master of Fine Arts degree in creative writing from the University of Oregon where I taught undergraduate writing workshops.
I believe my educational background has equipped me with various tools and skills that enable me to help students find creative solutions to the problems that they encounter in the learning process.
What are your educational beliefs?
I believe that the learning process ought to be engaging, and that there is always the potential to make it interactive and fun!
What are your hobbies and interests?
I greatly enjoy reading and writing, and I also love music, film, and basketball.
Tell us one fun fact about you.
I play the guitar.
Maddie Di Paolo
French, English Literacy Specialist, Special Education Specialist
Maddie Di Paolo
What’s your role at RWT?
I teach literacy, French, math, learning habits and executive functioning skills. I am mostly fascinated by seeing how children can overcome their learning challenges with proper instruction and approaches.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I was in a Montessori classroom for over twenty years. I taught exceptional, enriched and conflicted learners. My post secondary education was from the University of Toronto, majoring in languages and Child Psychology. I am a parent of an almost 28-year-old, savant autistic young man. I have garnered an enormous amount of knowledge along the way which has helped me navigate from an early stage the different levels of advocacy required to ensure only the most positive experience for my son, Marco.
What are your educational beliefs?
I always feel it is not the destination but the journey that one experiences along the educational path, be it the student, parents, tutor or school faculty. I always reinforce to my students it isn’t solely about a mark, but, about what the lesson, homework, or assignment has taught them. always look for the message or experience it has brought you. I like to look at the world through my students’ eyes. As Confucius said, “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.”
What are your hobbies and interests?
I have a love of anything nature. From a simple fern to an exotic orchid, I appreciate the individuality of each as it contributes to the life cycle. I enjoy spending time with friends and family, which in turn brings me to my love of fine food, cooking, baking or simply making something from scratch.
Tell us one fun fact about you.
I love to mediate, and anything to do with spirituality and gemstones.
Christina Piccone
Literacy, Math and Special Education Specialist
Christina Piccone
What’s your role at RWT?
My role at RWT is teaching students English and Mathematics to help them develop their learning skills of listening, comprehension, oral, and mathematics.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I have many years of teaching experience with special needs students as an educator in the YRDSB board. I have mentored and coached board teachers with learning activities focusing on Language, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Science on how to best engage students with special needs into learning. I have both my Bachelor of Arts Degree majoring in English and minoring in History and my Registered Early Childhood Education Diploma.
What are your educational beliefs?
I believe every child is special, unique, and valued, and as teachers we need to embrace and portray this. I believe in inclusiveness and respect for all children. I believe children learn at their own pace and it is up to the teacher to create a learning plan based upon the student’s individual learning needs.
What are your hobbies and interests?
My hobbies and interests are playing soccer, walking my puppy, working out at the gym, reading books, teaching children, and giving back to the community.
Tell us one fun fact about you.
I have a 2-year-old dog named Pepper who is 6 pounds and is a shih tzu and Maltese breed.
Mariam Imran
Literacy, Math and Special Education Specialist
Mariam Imran
What’s your role at RWT?
My role at Read Write Think is collaborating with my coworkers to develop a curriculum that best supports the needs of the students at our centre and implement it with students I work with to the best of their potential. I specialize in reading, comprehension, writing, numeracy, social skills and special education.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I am an experienced tutor who works with children with special education plans. I create lesson plans that cater to the child’s unique needs, whether they are visual, auditory or kinesthetic learners. My major is in early childhood education at the University of Guelph Humber. I accumulated a vast amount of knowledge about child psychology, planning stimulating educational activities for children and creating a safe and fun learning environment for children to thrive. I have had the opportunity to work closely with children who are non-verbal and on the spectrum which has allowed me to implement the knowledge I have gained from various linguistic programs taken during my undergraduate studies. My experience working with children from infant to grade 12 has allowed me to shape my overall role as an educator where my goal is to innovate, integrate and educate.
What are your educational beliefs?
I believe children are active and capable learners who are greatly influenced by the community, culture and experiences in their environment. Thus, as a professional I strive to guide them and provide them with a sense of confidence in their social and academic endeavours so they can strive and make sense of the world around them. I believe that we as professionals are not only educators but researchers as well. Our field requires us to continuously engage in a cycle of observations, documentation and sharing of knowledge to ensure that practice is relevant and reflects the needs of the child.
What are your hobbies and interests?
My interests include just about anything to do with nature. I enjoy taking long walks in parks, tree-tracking and camping. I go on annual trips to Algonquin park where I camp out in a tent for a weekend and spend my time kayaking and rock climbing.
Tell us one fun fact about you.
When I was younger, I was ambidextrous (able to use both hands equally well). However, I had grown out of it by the age of 10 and now dominantly use my left hand.
Debbie Despirt
Literacy, Math and Special Education Specialist
Debbie Despirt
What’s your role at RWT?
My role is as a numeracy, literacy, and special education tutor.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I am an Ontario-certified teacher with over fifteen years of experience in the classroom. I have taught at the elementary level with a focus on intermediate learners for the past several years. Also, I have taught special education at the secondary level.
What are your educational beliefs?
My educational belief is that everyone has the ability to learn. Learning is a journey and we are all on our own educational paths. Every student has the capability to learn at their own pace.
What are your hobbies and interests?
You can find me exploring the great outdoors during all seasons. I enjoy paddle boarding, skiing, hiking, and visiting places all across Canada. If I am not outdoors, I am reading or crocheting.
Tell us one fun fact about you.
I participate in Mud and Foam Runs, just for fun!
Davlat Dadikhuda
Literacy, Math and Special Education Specialist
Davlat Dadikhuda
What’s your role at RWT?
At RWT, my role is to teach and support literacy, English, Math, History, and Geography.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I am working at my Ph. D with a strong interest in the area of philosophy of education. In the Socratic spirit, I consider my primary function in teaching to be that of a facilitator. I strongly encourage students to become independent learners with the help of an educator.
What are your educational beliefs?
I believe that all learning ought to start from what is better known to us and then move onto what is better known by nature. I believe in the inquisitive process of education, where we pique the students’ interest in the topic by asking questions and once their minds are ready, the information is readily absorbed.
What are your hobbies and interests?
I like to play soccer!
Tell us one fun fact about you.
I enjoy poetry and mythology.
Masha Koroleva
Literacy, Math and Special Education Specialist
Masha Koroleva
What’s your role at RWT?
I help students with a wide range of learning abilities develop and refine their literacy skills. This includes both early reading and writing acquisition for junior students as well as writing enrichment for intermediate and senior students. I am particularly passionate about helping students with additional needs overcome their learning challenges.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I hold a Bachelor of Honours in Psychology from York University, and have many years of experience working with children in a research capacity at major research hospitals across Toronto. I’ve had the pleasure of teaching abroad at an international school where I developed a passion for creatively designing and implementing programs for children who have difficulty responding to traditional methods of teaching.
What are your educational beliefs?
I’m a big fan of recent research in neuroplasticity & education that tells us that that “the brain is a muscle that grows with exercise”. This means that strategic, incremental and consistent changes have the power to impact even the most challenging learning blocks in reading and writing remediation.
What are your hobbies and interests?
I love film photography and art – creating it, experiencing and sharing it. Creativity and art are a big source of inspiration and guidance in my own teaching practice.
Tell us one fun fact about you.
I spent three summers in Brazil studying and practicing mindfulness & meditation.
Leslei Tran
Math, Literacy and Special Education Specialist
Leslei Tran
What’s your role at RWT?
I teach math, literacy, French, science, and Special Education.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I received my Honours Degree in Psycholinguistics (the science of the mechanics of language) at the University of Toronto. I am certified in TESOL, TEFL, and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). I also have several years of experience in education and speech language pathology/therapy in schools, clinics, and hospitals. These experiences have helped me sharpen my teaching skills and grow my passion for helping individuals with special needs who are struggling academically.
What are your educational beliefs?
I believe that every student is intelligent in their own way. I like to tailor my teaching approach to my students’ learning strengths, interests, and personality/energy. I also believe that education should be fun. Creative and interactive lessons are the most memorable for students and are typically the types of lessons that help students effectively.
What are your hobbies and interests?
I like fitness, beauty, hiking, travelling, painting, swimming, spending time with my family and friends, and learning new practical skills.
Tell us one fun fact about you.
I have a twin brother and I hold a second-degree black belt in karate.
Bertiana Fregjaj
French, Special Education and Math Specialist
Bertiana Fregjaj
What’s your role at RWT?
My role at RWT is to teach French and special education. I guide my students to develop their reading, writing and math skills.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I received my high school and university education in France. I worked as a university assistant professor producing and designing the learning materials, teaching seminars and assessing the work of students. Ever since then, I have been developing and delivering curriculums to children of different levels of ability and helping to implement them in both English and French. My previous work experiences and my education have equipped me with skills and knowledge to support children achieve their full potential.
What are your educational beliefs?
I believe each and every child has the ability to achieve great results and reach their full potential when given the tools individually tailored based on their needs and learning pace/abilities. I also believe that the teacher is central in a child’s learning, equipping them with the right strategies and techniques.
What are your hobbies and interests?
I enjoy walks with my daughter and reading a good book.
Tell us one fun fact about you.
I can speak four different languages – English, French, Albanian and Italian.
Math and Science
Danielle Cautillo
Literacy, Math and Science Specialist
Danielle Cautillo
What’s your role at RWT?
My role at RWT is to support and teach literacy, math and science to a wide range of students. My goal is to improve my students’ academic capabilities and lead them to success.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I have completed my studies at York University where I received my B.Sc. Honor’s in Psychology. I am an extremely passionate professional and constantly apply my knowledge in professional settings. When I am not working with students at RWT, I do Applied Behavior Analysis therapy (ABA). I help students on the autism spectrum balance everyday life. My specialty is to help struggling students achieve independence, academic success and find the joy of learning. All this brings me great satisfaction and joy.
What are your educational beliefs?
I believe that every student has the capability to achieve their academic goals with hard work and patience. Children need a safe and fun environment to work and grow in. Giving them the space to ask questions and express their concerns will eventually result in academic growth.
What are your hobbies and interests?
In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I also like spending time outdoors and especially enjoy hiking. I love learning and consistently do research on areas that interest me.
Tell us one fun fact about you.
I love to bake!
Dharshan Manivannan
Math and Science Specialist
Dharshan Manivannan
What’s your role at RWT?
I teach and support students with their math and science. I am able to remediate and fill in the gaps, as well as provide supplemental tutoring in all math and science subjects.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I have an Honours Bachelor of Science degree from Ryerson University. I have learned and taught many math and science subjects our students may be struggling with. My ability is to spot quickly where they might need support since I was able to help many others who struggled with the same concept. I provide instruction in a calm, re-assuring way where children can learn fast.
What are your educational beliefs?
I believe that anyone can be taught anything. It is all just a matter of finding the best approach.
What are your hobbies and interests?
I enjoy volunteering and contributing to my community. I have volunteered on and off at hospitals for the past six years.
Tell us one fun fact about you.
I enjoy going for long walks.
Tetyana Zyumchenko
Math and Science Specialist
Tetyana Zyumchenko
What’s your role at RWT?
I am a math tutor here. I help children develop logical thinking, memorize and practise math facts, overcome fear of math, and overall fall in love with the magic world of numbers, precision, and exact sciences.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I graduated from Moscow State University, faculty of mathematics. Ever since then, I have taught a wide range of students of different abilities, inclinations, and educational background. I have taught for 35 years, and my experience has shaped my educational beliefs.
What are your educational beliefs?
As Mikhail Lomonosov put it, “Mathematics should be studied if only for that it puts the mind in order.” Mathematics has such a wide range of practical applications even if students don’t end up using it immediately. It organizes ideas, develops logical thinking, clears foggy minds – those are just a few things that it does to those who put their minds to learning and respecting mathematics consistently. Studying math sharpens your mind, and wherever you are going to use that is up to you.
What are your hobbies and interests?
I love swimming and just generally being around water.
Tell us one fun fact about you.
In our first class together!
Anjali Gaur
Science and Math Specialist
Anjali Gaur
What’s your role at RWT?
I teach a wide range of subjects to students at RWT with a focus on high school science and math subjects.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I majored in Biochemistry and have a PhD in Biomedical Sciences from the University of Pavia in Italy. I spent five years working as a research scientist in Europe, and in the process discovered my love of teaching. Apart from research, I assisted many undergraduate students with laboratory work and proofreading assignments. I have a passion for helping people understand how life works on a fundamental level. I was a freelance science and math tutor for more than three years before joining RWT team.
What are your educational beliefs?
I believe children need a motivating and engaging environment to learn.
What are your hobbies and interests?
I love dancing, painting, reading and traveling.
Tell us one fun fact about you.
I love dancing! I wish to open my own Bollywood Dance School for little kids.
Karina Klenoer
Science and Math Specialist
Karina Klenoer
What’s your role at RWT?
My name is Karina. I tutor Math, Science, and Physics at RWT.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I am an Ontario certified math teacher. I have a working expertise of cognitive and emotional child development, Ontario curriculum, common barriers students face, needs of special education students, adult learning principles, and most importantly – I am committed to student success! I love to see the spark in my students’ eyes that tells me louder than words, “Wow, NOW I get it!” I love the interaction and the learning process, and I always learn something valuable while teaching.
I have worked in the field of education for over 15 years. My students were children as little as one year of age and as young as 85 years of age. Worked with every age in between – toddlers, preschoolers, primary-junior-intermediate-senior students, college/university students, parents, teachers, seniors..
What are your educational beliefs?
I know that everyone is unique, and I do my best to help my students overcome their own unique barriers. I always strive to empower my students to believe in their own ability to succeed. I encourage them to apply their knowledge, learn from mistakes, and raise their self-confidence.
What are your hobbies and interests?
When I am not teaching, I love the great outdoors – it happens that I meet students on trails and mountain tops – so look for me on your hikes! I love gardening, I also love to watch a good movie, appreciate listening to lots of music, reading, and studying art. For the past three years I am also learning a lot in personal growth field. This ties into my philosophy that it is our ultimate joy to grow and develop ourselves and those around us.
Tell us one fun fact about you.
I am very grateful for having an opportunity to influence your child’s growth!
French
Stephanie Kotsopoulos
Literacy, Math and Special Education Specialist
Stephanie Kotsopoulos
What’s your role at RWT?
I teach reading, writing, French, special education, and prepare students for SAT tests.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I received my Honours Degree in History at the University of Guelph with an area of concentration in Nutrition. I have also earned a certificate in French from Durham College. During my undergraduate studies, I developed a passion for creative writing, research and essay writing. I utilized my strengths in research and writing and became a tutor at the University of Guelph where I helped students develop their writing skills and assisted editing academic research papers. At RWT, I help students develop their academic skills to achieve necessary results in language art areas. I work with high school students on SAT language and essay part preparation, helping them obtain the necessary score for colleges and universities admittance.
My previous experience of working at a clinic that provides a wide range of therapy services to children of all ages gave me with deep understanding of how to interact and engage with children who require special education. My understanding of various types of learning styles allows me to connect with students at a different level.
What are your educational beliefs?
I believe that all children are unique, and the “one size fits all” teaching approach is not equally effective for all students. It is important to learn the strengths of each student and apply appropriate methods of teaching to ensure all students can reach their academic goals.
What are your hobbies and interests?
In my spare time I enjoy reading and I participate in two book clubs. I also enjoy hockey, hiking and cooking.
Tell us one fun fact about you.
I love aquatic life! I have a pet lobster, two clownfish, three shrimps and a starfish in a saltwater fish tank.
Loїc-Aime Mulatris
French and English Literacy Specialist
Loїc-Aime Mulatris
What’s your role at RWT?
I teach and support literacy, English and French at RWT. I do my best to develop and implement lesson plans that facilitate learning and help students achieve their educational goals.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Alberta and a Master of Fine Arts degree in creative writing from the University of Oregon where I taught undergraduate writing workshops.
I believe my educational background has equipped me with various tools and skills that enable me to help students find creative solutions to the problems that they encounter in the learning process.
What are your educational beliefs?
I believe that the learning process ought to be engaging, and that there is always the potential to make it interactive and fun!
What are your hobbies and interests?
I greatly enjoy reading and writing, and I also love music, film, and basketball.
Tell us one fun fact about you.
I play the guitar.
Maddie Di Paolo
French, English Literacy Specialist, Special Education Specialist
Maddie Di Paolo
What’s your role at RWT?
I teach literacy, French, math, learning habits and executive functioning skills. I am mostly fascinated by seeing how children can overcome their learning challenges with proper instruction and approaches.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I was in a Montessori classroom for over twenty years. I taught exceptional, enriched and conflicted learners. My post secondary education was from the University of Toronto, majoring in languages and Child Psychology. I am a parent of an almost 28-year-old, savant autistic young man. I have garnered an enormous amount of knowledge along the way which has helped me navigate from an early stage the different levels of advocacy required to ensure only the most positive experience for my son, Marco.
What are your educational beliefs?
I always feel it is not the destination but the journey that one experiences along the educational path, be it the student, parents, tutor or school faculty. I always reinforce to my students it isn’t solely about a mark, but, about what the lesson, homework, or assignment has taught them. always look for the message or experience it has brought you. I like to look at the world through my students’ eyes. As Confucius said, “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.”
What are your hobbies and interests?
I have a love of anything nature. From a simple fern to an exotic orchid, I appreciate the individuality of each as it contributes to the life cycle. I enjoy spending time with friends and family, which in turn brings me to my love of fine food, cooking, baking or simply making something from scratch.
Tell us one fun fact about you.
I love to mediate, and anything to do with spirituality and gemstones.
Bertiana Fregjaj
French, Special Education and Math Specialist
Bertiana Fregjaj
What’s your role at RWT?
My role at RWT is to teach French and special education. I guide my students to develop their reading, writing and math skills.
How does your background contribute to what you do?
I received my high school and university education in France. I worked as a university assistant professor producing and designing the learning materials, teaching seminars and assessing the work of students. Ever since then, I have been developing and delivering curriculums to children of different levels of ability and helping to implement them in both English and French. My previous work experiences and my education have equipped me with skills and knowledge to support children achieve their full potential.
What are your educational beliefs?
I believe each and every child has the ability to achieve great results and reach their full potential when given the tools individually tailored based on their needs and learning pace/abilities. I also believe that the teacher is central in a child’s learning, equipping them with the right strategies and techniques.
What are your hobbies and interests?
I enjoy walks with my daughter and reading a good book.
Tell us one fun fact about you.
I can speak four different languages – English, French, Albanian and Italian.