Building confidence, not just grades
Building confidence, not just grades
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Relationship-first math support and embedded executive function strategies for grades 6–10.
Relationship-first math support and embedded executive function strategies for grades 6–10.
I provide a calming, non-judgmental space that honors students who learn differently and celebrate steady, incremental effort over high-stakes perfection.
I provide a calming, non-judgmental space that honors students who learn differently and celebrate steady, incremental effort over high-stakes perfection.
Meet Steve Rish
Meet Steve Rish
I began my teaching career with a simple belief: every student learns differently, and meaningful learning happens when a student feels seen, supported, and respected.
Over the past two decades — as a classroom teacher and resource specialist at New Trier High School and Wilmette Junior High, and now as a private educator — I've worked with students navigating ADHD, executive functioning challenges, dyslexia, dyscalculia, math anxiety, and school-related stress. These students aren't behind. They're bright, capable learners who need more structure, patience, and individualization than a traditional classroom can offer.
My approach is relationship-first. Before we ever open a textbook, I work to build genuine trust and a calm, non-judgmental space where making mistakes is part of the process — not something to fear. I adapt my teaching in real time to match how each student is processing and feeling in that session, not according to a pre-planned agenda.
Expertise & Support
Expertise & Support
Tailoring instruction directly to each learner’s unique cognitive style rather than forcing the student to adapt to a rigid, standard curriculum.
Tailoring instruction directly to each learner’s unique cognitive style rather than forcing the student to adapt to a rigid, standard curriculum.
Mathematical Confidence
Mathematical Confidence
Pre-Algebra through Geometry.
Building genuine conceptual understanding and dismantling math anxiety — one concrete step at a time.
Methodical Chemistry
Methodical Chemistry
Grade-level curriculum support.
Breaking complex scientific concepts into visual, manageable steps to build confidence and reduce overwhelm.
Building Independence
Building Independence
Integrated routines.
Executive function strategies — focus, time management, self-advocacy — woven directly into every session.
Voices of Progress
Voices of Progress
Steady, incremental progress and sustainable partnerships.
Steady, incremental progress and sustainable partnerships.
Without you I don't know if I would have made it through high school. Not only have you helped me so much with my academics, you have really been there for me emotionally. You are one of the best role models I have ever had — I feel lucky to know you.
- Former Student
Thank you so much for the encouragement, teaching, coaching, and skills you gave to XXXXX...it has made a tremendous difference and he would not be where he is today without your efforts and work with him. You are truly gifted at this -- so glad you found your calling.
- Parent
[They have]...benefitted from the one-on-one time to better break down and understand what they are learning in class. I love the ease of scheduling (option for zoom appointments as well) and easy communication.
- Parent
You are a gift from God. You have been such an incredible positive force for XXXX in every aspect. Thank you for truly caring about him and his success, not only in school, and helping us make him just a really great happy human.
- Parent
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