Our Tutors
Leanne Akerman
Director of Tutoring - $70/hr
Leanne Akerman is an experienced educator, consultant, and entrepreneur whose work bridges instructional design, educational technology, and professional learning across diverse school communities. With a background that spans classroom teaching, district‑level coaching, and EdTech implementation, she brings a demonstrated history of strengthening instructional practice through evidence‑based training and technology‑enhanced learning environments.
Leanne’s career is further shaped by her entrepreneurial experience, which strengthens her ability to lead projects, build relationships, and adapt solutions to meet the needs of dynamic educational settings. She is recognized for her ability to translate complex tools and concepts into clear, actionable strategies that empower teachers and tutors and enrich student learning.
Meeting tutoring clients' needs is central to Leanne's approach, emphasizing personalized strategies that align with each learner's unique goals, strengths, and challenges. She prioritizes clear communication and collaborative goal-setting to ensure interventions are both relevant and effective. By continuously assessing progress and adapting methods, Leanne fosters a supportive environment that empowers clients to achieve measurable growth and confidence in their learning journey.
Majeed Bashir
$120/hr
Majeed Bashir is a distinguished STEM educator, academic leader, and one‑on‑one SAT specialist with more than four decades of international teaching and school leadership experience across Pakistan, Ghana, and the United States. Renowned for his calm, structured, and diagnostic approach, he has guided generations of students toward exceptional academic performance and long‑term success. As a master SAT Math tutor, Majeed has developed a reputation for producing top‑tier score improvements through individualized instruction, mastery‑based learning, and strategic test‑taking methods. His students consistently achieve elite percentile ranges, and many have earned admission to globally renowned institutions including MIT, Harvard, Yale, Oxford, and other leading U.S. and U.K. universities. His results reflect not only technical expertise but also a rare ability to identify learning gaps quickly, build confidence, and elevate students to their highest potential. Beyond tutoring, Majeed has served in senior academic leadership roles for over 40 years — including Principal, Vice Principal, Head of Physics, and Director of multiple school systems. He has led academic teams, designed national‑level curricula, coached teachers, and built high‑performance learning cultures grounded in inquiry, rigor, and compassion. His leadership has shaped thousands of learners and educators across continents. Majeed’s work extends beyond classrooms: he has mentored underserved students for global competitions, led groups to NASA‑aligned programs, and helped young people from diverse backgrounds access life‑changing educational opportunities. His legacy is defined by excellence, service, and a lifelong commitment to empowering students to reach the world’s most competitive academic stages.
_heic.png)
Helen Francis
$95/hr
Helen Francis is an educator and youth development leader with a passion for helping students grow academically and personally. She is currently in her sixth year of teaching and holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Early Childhood Education, as well as a master’s degree in Elementary Education with specialized endorsements in reading and mathematics. Helen has extensive experience working with students in Kindergarten through 5th grade, with a strong focus on building foundational skills in literacy, math, and critical thinking. Her approach to tutoring is centered on creating engaging, confidence-building learning environments tailored to each student’s individual needs. Helen focuses on developing true understanding, strong study habits, and long-term academic independence rather than short-term memorization. Her effectiveness in the classroom has been recognized at the highest level, placing her in the top 1% of teachers in Texas. She has also contributed to the development of multiple published curricula, using research-based strategies to drive measurable student growth. As Chief Operating Officer of Chase Youth Programs, Helen plays a key role in overseeing program quality, staff development, and school partnerships. Within the tutoring department, she helps design and implement individualized learning plans that support academic progress while also building confidence and a genuine love for learning. Her work ensures that every student receives structured, high-quality support designed to help them succeed both in school and beyond.
Shanair Price
$85/hr
Shanair Price is a highly accomplished educator with extensive experience in youth leadership, after-school programming, and camp administration. She holds a bachelor’s degree in global studies and education and has successfully supported students from elementary through high school in both academic and enrichment settings. Certified in English, Shanair specializes in middle school instruction, where she helps students strengthen core subject mastery, build confidence, and develop effective study and organizational skills. Her teaching style is structured, supportive, and student-centered, allowing her to meet learners at their current level while consistently pushing them toward growth and achievement. Shanair is available to tutor students of all ages across a wide range of subjects.
Timothy Williams
$80/hr
Timothy A. Williams is an educator, researcher, and doctoral candidate with a strong foundation in sociology, criminal justice, and political science. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Criminal Justice from Morehouse College and his Master of Arts in Sociology and Criminal Justice from Clark Atlanta University. He is currently pursuing his doctorate in education at the University of Arizona Global Campus, where his work focuses on educational policy and higher education. Mr. Williams serves as an adjunct faculty member and political science instructor at Atlanta Technical College, where he teaches courses such as American Government and Introduction to Social Science. He has also held instructional roles at institutions including Morris Brown College, Kennesaw State University, and Georgia Military College, bringing a broad and practical perspective to higher education. He works with students across multiple levels, supporting K–5th grades in Math, ELA, Social Studies, and Science; 6th–12th grades in Social Studies, Sciences, and ELA; and college students in Social Science courses. In addition to his teaching experience, he has worked extensively in youth mentorship, academic support, and community-based programming, demonstrating a strong commitment to student development and community engagement. His research interests include educational equity, higher education, and the experiences of Black men in academic spaces. Outside of his professional work, Mr. Williams enjoys exercising, football, video games, cooking, and music. His passion for education, mentorship, and community impact continues to guide his work as both an educator and emerging scholar.
Jumai Muhammad
$65/hr
Jumai Muhammed is a dedicated educator, coach, and mentor with extensive experience working with children and young adults in academic and enrichment settings. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Clark Atlanta University and has supported students at the elementary, middle, and high school levels through after-school programs, private coaching, and youth development initiatives. Jumai specializes in building strong foundational skills, boosting student confidence, and helping learners develop effective study habits. Her approach is patient, structured, and encouraging, allowing her to meet students where they are while guiding them toward academic growth and personal success. She is deeply committed to supporting students both academically and emotionally, helping them remain motivated and engaged throughout their learning journey. Jumai is available to tutor students of all ages across a variety of subjects and is dedicated to creating a positive, supportive learning environment for every student.
Akash Puvvala
$65/hr
Akash Puvvala is a tennis coach and tutor who enjoys working with students of all ages and meeting them where they are. He recently graduated from Emory University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology on the pre-med track, where he also served as a teaching assistant for cell biology. In that role, he led small-group discussions, broke down complex topics using diagrams and real-world examples, and supported students outside of class, experiences that strengthened his ability to explain difficult concepts clearly and patiently. Akash has several summers of experience as a tennis camp counselor at Mast Tennis Academy, coaching players ages 5–15 across a wide range of skill levels. He led drills focused on footwork and stroke development, ran games and point-play matches, and gave individualized feedback to help players build confidence. One of his favorite parts of coaching is breaking down techniques in ways that click for each player, such as helping a lacrosse player understand a forehand by simplifying the biomechanics, an approach that builds confidence and trust on the court. Akash currently plays on Emory University’s Club A tennis team, organizes practice matches with teammates, and has competed in USTA tournaments. He offers tennis instruction and tutoring for all ages in cell biology, math, reading, and SAT preparation, with an emphasis on clear explanations, thoughtful structure, and helping students gain confidence through understanding.
Lourdes Queen
$55/hr
Lourdes Queen is a dedicated, compassionate, and high-achieving educator and coach who inspires children to learn, grow, and discover their potential both on and off the court. She will be graduating early with her Bachelor's degree from Georgia State University this May with Honors Laureate distinction, having completed her associate degree in high school and excelled in honors and AP courses throughout her academic journey. With over a decade of tennis experience, Lourdes has evolved from a passionate player into a thoughtful coach who empowers young athletes to develop their skills, confidence, and love for the game. She has previously competed on the GSU Club Tennis Travel Team and brings her expertise, patience, and enthusiasm to every session. As a tutor, Lourdes specializes in math, reading, writing, and college advisory, providing guidance on essay writing, application strategy, and general college preparation. She is comfortable teaching children ages 3–5 through 4th grade, creating a safe, fun, and supportive learning environment where students feel encouraged to ask questions, make mistakes, and thrive. Her approachable and warm style ensures that children feel confident, inspired, and ready to excel academically and personally. Lourdes is thrilled to join Chase Youth Programs, where she will bring her passion for teaching, coaching, and mentorship, helping every child reach their goals both on the court and in the classroom.
Jordan Byrd
$50/hr
Akash Puvvala is a tennis coach and tutor who enjoys working with students of all ages and meeting them where they are. He recently graduated from Emory University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology on the pre-med track, where he also served as a teaching assistant for cell biology. In that role, he led small-group discussions, broke down complex topics using diagrams and real-world examples, and supported students outside of class, experiences that strengthened his ability to explain difficult concepts clearly and patiently. Akash has several summers of experience as a tennis camp counselor at Mast Tennis Academy, coaching players ages 5–15 across a wide range of skill levels. He led drills focused on footwork and stroke development, ran games and point-play matches, and gave individualized feedback to help players build confidence. One of his favorite parts of coaching is breaking down techniques in ways that click for each player, such as helping a lacrosse player understand a forehand by simplifying the biomechanics, an approach that builds confidence and trust on the court. Akash currently plays on Emory University’s Club A tennis team, organizes practice matches with teammates, and has competed in USTA tournaments. He offers tennis instruction and tutoring for all ages in cell biology, math, reading, and SAT preparation, with an emphasis on clear explanations, thoughtful structure, and helping students gain confidence through understanding.
Charlene Hernes
$45/hr
Charlene is a dedicated special education teacher with over 10 years of experience supporting students across a wide range of learning needs. She is passionate about creating inclusive, supportive environments where every student feels capable, valued, and empowered to succeed. Charlene firmly believes that every student can learn and grow with the right encouragement, structure, and individualized approach. Her teaching style combines strong academic support with motivation and positivity. Charlene acts as both an educator and a cheerleader for her students, celebrating progress at every stage and helping build confidence along the way. She specializes in executive functioning skills, including organization, time management, and study strategies, while also supporting students in college readiness and long-term career goal planning. Charlene is committed to making high-quality academic support accessible to all families and offers a sliding scale for those who may need financial flexibility. Through her personalized and encouraging approach, she helps students not only improve academically but also develop the confidence and life skills needed for long-term success.