Hi, I'm Kristene! I'm a credentialed special education teacher with an M.A. in Education (Special Education) from Azusa Pacific University and a California Education Specialist credential (Mild/Moderate) with Autism and English Learner authorizations. I've spent six years teaching students with IEPs in grades 6-12, including students with autism, ADHD, and specific learning disabilities, and I currently provide one-on-one tutoring for students with learning differences.
My classroom...
Hi, I'm Kristene! I'm a credentialed special education teacher with an M.A. in Education (Special Education) from Azusa Pacific University and a California Education Specialist credential (Mild/Moderate) with Autism and English Learner authorizations. I've spent six years teaching students with IEPs in grades 6-12, including students with autism, ADHD, and specific learning disabilities, and I currently provide one-on-one tutoring for students with learning differences.
My classroom experience includes four years as a resource teacher, supporting students in both push-in and pull-out settings, and two years as a special day class teacher at the high school level. As teacher of record, I planned curriculum and taught World History, U.S. History, Government, Economics, Consumer Math, and English to students with IEPs. Before teaching in schools, I ran my own music school, taught private piano lessons to children and adults, and taught classes as a vendor for a local homeschool program, so working with individual students and families has always been a natural fit for me.
My approach is structured, patient, and encouraging. I break skills into small, manageable steps, use visuals, graphic organizers, and modeling, and check for understanding often so students never feel lost. For students who struggle with focus or organization, I build in executive function strategies like planners, checklists, and routines they can use on their own. I adapt every session to the student's goals, whether that's keeping up with schoolwork, improving reading and writing, or preparing for a test.
I also enjoy working with parents. I can explain IEP goals in plain language and share strategies to support learning at home. My favorite part of teaching is the moment a concept finally clicks and a student realizes they can do it. Feel free to message me with any questions or to set up a first lesson. I'd love to help your student succeed.