Elena

Hi, I’m Elena!

I am an academic coach with a passion for science, storytelling, public policy and innovation. After receiving a BA from Duke University, I returned to my hometown of New York City and began teaching. During my first two years of work, I earned a Master’s in Education at Brooklyn College as a NYC Teaching Fellow. Then, in 2014, I moved abroad to continue teaching at the American International School in Hong Kong.

My specialization is middle years education, with a particular expertise in science, which I taught for 10 years at the middle school level (ages 10-14).

Through science, my students and I explored not only the basics of biology, chemistry and physics, but also the processes of observing, developing questions, collecting and organizing data, working in groups and communicating findings in creative ways - from posters and powerpoints to poems, skits and documentary videos. I also had the privilege of teaching additional subjects, including psychology, history, geography and Greek mythology, as well as coaching volleyball, which I started playing when I was in middle school and still play recreationally to this day. I am highly adaptable to different learning styles and enjoy making learning fun and memorable by incorporating games, new activities and various forms of media.

In 2018, I moved to Berlin, where I taught at another international school and studied public administration. I am passionate about education and recognize its potential on an individual level to help students grow and evolve in their environments, as well as on a systemic level, to create lasting changes in societal structures.

I am from the United States and I speak English, with a working knowledge of Spanish and German.